Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy coconut sauce combined with fresh lemon adds bright, tropical flavors that complement the tender cod fillets beautifully.

Ingredients

• 4 thick white cod fillets
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion (sautéed until translucent)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 1 can coconut milk (full-fat preferred)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Step 2: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper onto the cod fillets.
3. Step 3: In a skillet, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Mix in the coconut milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest, then let the sauce simmer gently.
5. Step 5: Place the seasoned cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the coconut lemon sauce over them.
6. Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
• You can substitute cod with other firm white fish like haddock or halibut.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the coconut milk mixture a bit longer before pouring it over the fish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the fish. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be warmed carefully without losing its creamy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?

Yes, you can use light coconut milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Full-fat coconut milk provides a better texture and flavor.

Is it necessary to bake the cod, or can I cook it on the stovetop?

Baking ensures even cooking and preserves the delicate texture of the fish while allowing the sauce to infuse flavor. However, you can simmer the fillets gently in the sauce on the stovetop if preferred.

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 92 reviews

This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a perfect dish for busy weeknights, combining flaky cod fillets baked to tender perfection with a rich, tangy coconut and lemon sauce. The sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger add depth and aroma, while the creamy coconut milk balances the bright zest and lemon juice, creating a delightful and wholesome meal that comes together quickly and easily in the oven.

• Author: Viktoria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Fusion (Seafood with tropical coconut and citrus flavors)
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fish

• 4 thick cod fillets
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the cod fillets.
2. Season the cod: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper evenly over all sides of the cod fillets to enhance their natural flavor.
3. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until fragrant, roughly 1-2 minutes.
4. Add coconut and lemon: Pour in the coconut milk, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir well and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors and slightly thicken.
5. Prepare for baking: Place the seasoned cod fillets in a baking dish in a single layer. Pour the coconut lemon cream sauce evenly over the fish, ensuring each fillet is well coated.
6. Bake the cod: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately, spooning extra sauce over the fillets for a creamy, flavorful finish.

Notes

• Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce, but light coconut milk can be substituted for a lower calorie option.
• Fresh lemon juice and zest add brightness; avoid bottled lemon juice if possible for better flavor.
• Cod fillets should be thick and uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
• Check the fish after 20 minutes to avoid overcooking and drying out.
• Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Keywords: Baked cod, coconut cream sauce, lemon, easy weeknight dinner, seafood recipe, healthy cod recipe