Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe
This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce features tender, flaky cod fillets baked to perfection in a rich and flavorful coconut lemon cream sauce infused with garlic, cumin, and a touch of spice. Inspired by Caribbean and Southeast Asian cuisines, this dish offers a healthy yet indulgent dinner option packed with vibrant flavors and creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean, Southeast Asian
Ingredients
For the Cod
- 4 fillets cod fillets (fresh or thawed frozen cod works best)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground recommended)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (consider smoked paprika for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to prevent sticking)
For the Sauce
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (light coconut milk can be used as a lower-calorie option)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for brightness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (only the yellow part)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh cloves preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for tanginess)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (for warmth)
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust for spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and paprika. Arrange the seasoned fillets in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the full-fat coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, ground cumin, turmeric (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
- Coat the Cod: Pour the prepared coconut lemon cream sauce generously over the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the cod for 18–20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the baked cod from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve: Serve warm, paired with your choice of sides such as quinoa or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
Notes
- Serve with a side of quinoa or steamed vegetables for a balanced and complete meal.
- For a lighter version, use light coconut milk instead of full-fat.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Smoked paprika can add an extra layer of smoky flavor if desired.
