I remember the first time I tried honey baked cod. The sweet aroma of honey mixed with garlic wafted through my kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere. As I took my first bite, the flaky fish melted in my mouth, leaving me wanting more. Cooking this dish feels like a warm hug on a busy night. It’s straightforward, quick, and comforting, which makes it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Plus, the blend of flavors from the honey and garlic creates a deliciously unique taste experience. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings joy to my family table with minimal effort.
Why make this recipe
Making Easy Honey Baked Cod is a great choice for busy cooks. This dish is not only simple but also healthy and satisfying. Cod is a lean fish, rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The balance of sweet honey and savory garlic makes it appealing to both adults and kids alike. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a delicious meal that everyone will love. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to make Easy Honey Baked Cod
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic marinade over them, making sure they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is flaky and cooked through.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
How to serve Easy Honey Baked Cod
Serve your honey baked cod on a warm plate with fresh lemon wedges. The bright lemon juice adds a nice tang that complements the sweet and savory flavors of the fish. You can pair it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal. This dish can also be served with crusty bread for those who want to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to store Easy Honey Baked Cod
If you have leftovers, allow the cod to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the cod in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it briefly until heated through. Avoid overcooking it again to keep the fish tender.
Tips to make Easy Honey Baked Cod
- Use fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like.
- Be careful not to overcook the cod; check for flakiness to know when it’s done.
- Marinate the cod for about 30 minutes before baking for even more flavor.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with the marinade! You can add herbs like thyme or parsley for a fresh twist. Alternatively, try mixing in some Dijon mustard or a splash of orange juice to give a different flavor profile to the dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and baking.
What can I use instead of honey?
If you prefer, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute for honey.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. It should not be translucent.
Easy Honey Baked Cod
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 4 fillets cod fillets Use fresh cod for best flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup honey Sweetens the dish.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce Adds savory flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For moisture and richness.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
- as needed Lemon wedges For serving, adds tanginess.
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the honey garlic marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is flaky and cooked through.
- Serve with lemon wedges.