Irresistible Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that transports you to a tropical paradise? Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is one such delightful experience that captivates the senses with its vibrant flavors and luscious textures. The combination of flaky cod, creamy coconut, and zesty lemon creates an explosion of taste that will leave your palate craving more. This dish is not only delicious but also simple enough to impress guests at dinner parties or cozy family gatherings.

Growing up, we often gathered around the dinner table after a long day, sharing stories and laughter over meals that brought us closer together. One of those memorable dishes was fish prepared in a rich, creamy sauce. Every bite was a reminder of the warmth of home and the joy of connection. Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce embodies that cherished memory, making it perfect for any occasion—be it a weeknight meal or a special celebration. Get ready to savor each mouthful as this recipe promises a culinary journey filled with flavor and comfort.

Key Ingredients For Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cod Fillets: Fresh or frozen cod fillets work well; choose fillets that are firm and translucent for the best flavor.
• Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess and richness; look for brands without additives for pure flavor.
• Fresh Lemons: Use juicy lemons for zest and juice; they enhance the flavor profile with bright acidity.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give depth to the sauce; opt for firm bulbs for optimal taste.
• Fresh Herbs: Cilantro or parsley can be used as garnish; they add freshness to balance the richness of the sauce.

For the Sauce:

• Butter: Unsalted butter helps create a smooth sauce; use it for sautéing garlic before adding other ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance flavors; adjust according to personal preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with nonstick cooking spray.

Second Step: Prepare the Garlic

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute. Be careful not to burn it.

Third Step: Create the Sauce

Pour in one can of coconut milk into the saucepan along with the juice and zest of two lemons. Stir well to combine all ingredients, bringing them to a gentle simmer.

Fourth Step: Season the Cod

Place your cod fillets into the prepared baking dish. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Fifth Step: Combine Cod and Sauce

Pour the coconut lemon cream sauce over the cod fillets evenly, ensuring they are well coated.

Sixth Step: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil during the last five minutes for a slight browning effect.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh fish and herbs will elevate your dish’s flavor significantly compared to frozen or dried alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook Cod: Keep an eye on your fish while baking; overcooking can lead to dryness—cod should flake easily when done.
• Add Extra Zest: For added brightness, consider topping with extra lemon zest before serving—it enhances both appearance and taste.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking dish with parchment paper. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Arrange the fish in the prepared dish.

In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, lemon juice, minced garlic, and zest. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Pour this luscious sauce over the cod fillets. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. For an extra touch, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to get a golden top.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is delightful and can be served with various accompaniments. Pair it with:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy rice absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Choose seasonal veggies for added flavor and nutrition.

Nutritional Information

This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce not only tastes fantastic but also offers health benefits. Cod is a lean source of protein low in calories. Coconut milk provides healthy fats, while lemon adds vitamin C. Each serving is approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet light choice for dinner.

Tips for Perfect Baked Cod

To achieve restaurant-quality Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce, consider these tips:

First, ensure your cod fillets are fresh or properly thawed if frozen. Fresh fish has a better flavor and texture. Second, don’t overcook the cod; it should be flaky but moist. Lastly, use high-quality coconut milk for a richer sauce.

FAQs

What can I substitute for coconut milk in this recipe?

If you’re looking to replace coconut milk in Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce, consider using heavy cream or Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of water for consistency. Almond milk can also work but may not provide the same rich flavor as coconut milk does.

Can I use other types of fish instead of cod?

Yes! While cod pairs wonderfully with the sauce, you can substitute it with other white fish like haddock or tilapia. Just adjust cooking times slightly based on the thickness of the fillets to ensure they cook properly.

Is Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain its creamy texture before serving.

What sides go well with Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce?

Several sides complement Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce wonderfully. Consider pairing it with quinoa or couscous for a hearty option. Grilled asparagus or sautéed spinach also adds nutrients and color to your meal plate.

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Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Tropical

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Description

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a tropical delight that brings the flavors of the ocean to your table. This dish features flaky cod fillets enveloped in a rich, creamy coconut sauce infused with zesty lemon and garlic. It’s an easy yet impressive recipe perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 fresh lemons (zest and juice)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add coconut milk, lemon juice, and zest; stir until combined and simmer gently.
4. Place cod fillets in the baking dish; season with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the coconut sauce over the cod, ensuring it is well-coated.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes; uncover for the last 5 minutes to brown slightly.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For extra brightness, sprinkle additional lemon zest before serving. Pair with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors.