Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe
This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce features tender, flaky cod fillets baked in a luscious, tangy coconut and lemon cream sauce. Infused with garlic, cumin, and a hint of turmeric, this dish brings a delightful fusion of Caribbean and Southeast Asian flavors. It’s a healthy, easy-to-make meal perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Caribbean, Southeast Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
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 a lower-calorie option)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (for brightness)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (only use 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 the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Prepare the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry thoroughly using paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and paprika. Arrange the seasoned fillets in the greased baking dish.
- Make the coconut lemon cream sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the full-fat coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, ground cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes until fully combined and smooth.
- Coat the cod with sauce: Pour the prepared coconut lemon cream sauce evenly over the cod fillets, making sure each piece is generously coated.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque throughout and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the cod from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy your baked cod with sides such as quinoa or steamed vegetables for a complete and nourishing meal.
Notes
- Serve with a side of quinoa or steamed vegetables to make it a balanced meal.
- Use smoked paprika if you want a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Light coconut milk can be substituted to reduce calories but will result in a lighter sauce.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spice.
- This dish pairs well with tropical rice or simple green salads.
