Ingredients :

• 1.5 lbs cod fillets
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Method :

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a better texture and prevent steaming.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and paprika.
4. Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
5. Pour the garlic lemon mixture over the fish, coating each fillet evenly.
6. Top each fillet with a lemon slice for extra brightness during the bake.
7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe Notes :

Chef Pro Tip: Always use fresh garlic and lemon juice rather than bottled versions for a cleaner, more vibrant flavor. Variation: Add a dusting of breadcrumbs on top before baking for a light crunch. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.