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- Cod fillets: These are the star of the dish. Fresh cod is firm and mild. Choose fillets that are bright in color and smell like the sea. Aim for about 6 ounces each for a filling meal. - Mayonnaise and its role: Mayonnaise adds creaminess and flavor. It keeps the fish moist during baking. The fat in mayo creates a rich topping that enhances the cod’s taste. - Seasonings and additions: - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: It adds a tangy kick. - 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: This brightens the dish and balances flavors. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder: It gives a lovely savory taste. - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This adds a hint of smokiness. - 1 teaspoon dried thyme: It brings a warm, herbal note. - Salt and freshly ground pepper: These enhance all other flavors. - Fresh parsley (for garnish): It adds color and freshness. - Lemon wedges (for serving): These give a zesty touch. - Converting measurements for different serving sizes: If you want to serve more or fewer people, simply adjust the amount of each ingredient. For example, for six servings, use 6 cod fillets and increase the mayo and seasonings in proportion. - Substitutions for key ingredients: If you don’t have mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It is creamy and adds a nice tang. For Dijon mustard, yellow mustard also works well, though it is milder. 1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps cook the cod evenly. 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and keeps the fish from sticking. 3. In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. 4. Add a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper to the mix. Stir until it is smooth and creamy. 1. Place 4 cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them out. 2. Lightly season the fillets with salt and pepper. This brings out their flavor. 3. Take the creamy topping and spread it over each cod fillet. Be generous for the best taste. 4. Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The cod should flake easily when done, and the topping should look golden. 1. After baking, take the cod out and let it rest for one minute. 2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. 3. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest. 4. For a nice touch, serve the cod on a bed of sautéed spinach or with roasted veggies. This simple and tasty dish will impress your family and friends! For the full recipe, check out the details above. How do you ensure cod is perfectly flaky? First, use fresh cod. Fresh fish cooks better. When baking, don’t overcook it. Bake until it flakes easily with a fork. This usually takes 12-15 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t dry out. Why is seasoning important? Seasoning enhances the cod's natural flavor. A little salt and pepper go a long way. The creamy mayo topping also adds flavor. Use garlic powder and smoked paprika for a tasty twist. These spices make the dish really pop! How do you choose fresh cod? Look for cod with a clean smell. It should smell like the ocean, not fishy. The flesh should be firm and shiny, with no discoloration. If possible, buy from a trusted fishmonger or market. What mayo should you select for flavor? Not all mayo is the same. Choose a high-quality mayo for the best taste. Some mayos are made with olive oil or other natural ingredients. They add depth to your dish. You can even try flavored mayo for extra zest! For the full recipe, check the section above. {{image_4}} You can easily change up the flavor of your baked cod. Here are some ideas: - Adding different herbs or spices: Try using dill, oregano, or basil for a fresh taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick. You can also switch smoked paprika for sweet paprika if you prefer less heat. - Alternative toppings: For a twist, mix in some grated cheese like parmesan or cheddar. You could also use crushed crackers or breadcrumbs to add texture. Sliced tomatoes on top can add a juicy burst of flavor. Making this dish fit different diets is simple. Here are some options: - Options for gluten-free and low-fat versions: Use gluten-free mayo to keep it gluten-free. For a low-fat version, consider Greek yogurt as a substitute for mayonnaise. It gives a creamy texture with fewer calories. - Vegan alternatives for the creamy topping: Swap the mayo with a vegan mayo or a mix of silken tofu and lemon juice. This keeps the dish creamy and delicious without any animal products. These variations let you create a dish that suits your taste and dietary needs while remaining tasty and satisfying. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. To keep your baked cod fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between the fish and the lid to absorb moisture. This helps keep the cod from getting soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cod on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the fish moist while warming it up. Yes, you can freeze baked cod! It’s best to freeze it right after it cools. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the cod in the fridge overnight. To reheat, follow the same steps as before for the best taste and texture. If you want to jazz it up, add a little more mayo topping before baking! How long to bake cod at different temperatures? You can bake cod at various temperatures. If you bake it at 350°F (175°C), it takes about 15-20 minutes. At 375°F (190°C), plan for 12-15 minutes. Baking at 400°F (200°C) is ideal, taking just 12-15 minutes for a perfect texture. The key is to look for the cod to be opaque and flaky. Can I use other types of fish instead of cod? Yes, you can use other fish! Options like haddock, tilapia, or pollock work well. These fish have a mild flavor and cook similarly. Just adjust the cooking time if the fillets are thicker or thinner than cod. What is the best way to check if cod is done? The best way to check if cod is done is to use a fork. Gently poke the fish; it should flake easily. If it still looks translucent, it needs more time. You can also use a food thermometer. The internal temperature should be about 145°F (63°C). How can I make my mayo topping more flavorful? To boost the flavor of your mayo topping, try adding herbs like dill or cilantro. You can also mix in some capers or chopped olives for a briny kick. A splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper adds a nice heat. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite. What side dishes pair well with baked cod? Baked cod pairs nicely with many sides. Try serving it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or carrots. A simple green salad or sautéed spinach adds freshness. For a hearty option, consider rice or quinoa to soak up the flavors. Can I prepare this dish in advance? You can prepare the cod dish in advance. Mix the mayo topping and spread it over the fish. Cover it with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, just pop it in the oven. This saves time and lets the flavors meld together. In summary, I covered key ingredients, measurement conversions, and step-by-step instructions for baking cod. I also shared tips on cooking techniques and ingredient quality, plus variations for dietary needs. Remember, selecting fresh ingredients is crucial for flavor. Storing leftovers properly keeps your meal fresh. You can enjoy this tasty dish in many ways. Explore different flavors to make it your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious baked cod!

Flavorful Baked Cod with Mayo

Elevate your dinner game with this zesty baked cod with creamy topping! This easy recipe combines fresh cod fillets and a rich, flavorful mayo mustard blend, baked to perfection with a crispy finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Click to explore the full recipe and discover tips for presentation and serving delicious sides that will complement your meal beautifully!
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Ingredients
  

4 cod fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To make cleanup a breeze, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.

      Arrange the cod fillets on your prepared baking sheet. Season them lightly with salt and freshly ground pepper, ensuring an even coating across each fillet.

        Take the creamy mayonnaise mixture and generously spread it over the top of each cod fillet, making sure they are well covered for maximum flavor.

          Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You'll know the cod is ready when it flakes effortlessly with a fork and the top has developed a lovely golden and slightly crispy crust.

            When finished baking, remove the cod from the oven and allow it to rest for about one minute. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor, then serve with lemon wedges on the side.

              Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 25 min | Servings: 4

                - Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, serve the cod fillets atop a vibrant bed of sautéed spinach or pair them with colorful roasted vegetables. A drizzle of extra lemon juice over the dish adds a refreshing brightness that enhances the overall flavor.