Description
This Savory Baked Cod in Coconut-Lemon Cream Sauce is a delightful main course featuring tender cod fillets baked to perfection in a rich and creamy coconut milk sauce infused with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and shallots. The dish combines vibrant citrus flavors with the subtle sweetness of coconut for a light yet indulgent seafood dinner perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat)
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare cod: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the cod fillets in a single layer, ensuring even cooking.
- Sauté aromatics: In a small skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the coconut-lemon sauce: Pour in coconut milk and broth, then add fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine and bake: Pour the warm sauce evenly over the cod fillets in the baking dish. Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the cod from the oven, spoon extra sauce over the fillets, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices if desired, and serve warm alongside your favorite sides.
Notes
- This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a dairy-free option, ensure the broth used is also dairy-free.
- If using frozen cod, thaw completely and pat dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
