Description
This Baked Honey Marinated Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets marinated in a sweet and savory blend of honey, soy sauce, fresh lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and olive oil. Baked to perfection, this dish is quick to prepare, healthy, and garnished with fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor, making it perfect for a light and delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Marinade
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, grated ginger, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined. This mixture will tenderize and flavor the cod fillets.
- Marinate the Cod: Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the honey marinade over the fish, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, but no longer than 1 hour to absorb the flavors without breaking down the fish texture.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Arrange the Cod: Place the marinated cod fillets in the baking dish in a single layer, pour any leftover marinade on top, and season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake the Fish: Bake the cod for 12-15 minutes, until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact time depends on the thickness of the fillets but avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the cod from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of freshness, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Do not marinate the fish for longer than 1 hour to prevent the acid in the lemon juice from starting to ‘cook’ the fish.
- You can substitute fresh lemon juice with lime juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- Ensure the cod fillets are of uniform thickness for even cooking.
