Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Lemon Butter Baked Cod

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon capers, drained (optional)
• Extra fresh herbs for garnish (parsley, dill, chives)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
2. Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and black pepper.
3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, and chives. Stir in the lemon juice.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Arrange the lemon slices around and on top of the cod fillets. Drizzle the olive oil over the top. Sprinkle capers over the fillets if using.
5. Bake the Cod: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
6. Serve: Remove the cod from the oven and transfer to serving plates. Spoon some of the lemon butter sauce from the baking dish over the top of each fillet. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
7. Accompaniments: Serve the lemon butter baked cod with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad.

This lemon butter baked cod is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the delicate flavor of the cod with the rich, tangy butter sauce. Enjoy your delicious meal