Boston Baked Cod

Boston Baked Cod is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the coast right to your dinner table. This recipe features tender cod fillets topped with a crispy panko crust, making it perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests. The combination of fresh lemon and parsley elevates the flavor, while the ease of preparation ensures that you can whip this up any night of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Fresh: The bright flavors of lemon and fresh herbs make every bite delicious.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and low in calories, this dish is great for health-conscious eaters.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad to customize your meal.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden topping and vibrant colors make this dish visually appealing for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Boston Baked Cod, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help you achieve the perfect bake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: An appropriate size helps ensure even cooking and prevents spills.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for melting butter without burning it, which is crucial for the breadcrumb mixture.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Ingredients

Boston Baked Cod is an easy and delicious dish featuring cod fillets baked to perfection with a crispy panko topping.

For the Cod

• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), about 1 inch thick
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Butter for greasing dish

How to Make Boston Baked Cod

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it’s heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets

Pat the cod fillets completely dry using paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Arrange the Fish

Place the seasoned fillets in the prepared baking dish. Ensure there is space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to foam (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest until everything is well combined and resembles wet sand.

Step 5: Apply Topping to Fillets

Divide the breadcrumb mixture evenly over each cod fillet. Press gently to ensure it adheres well.

Step 6: Add Lemon Juice and Oil

Drizzle fresh lemon juice and olive oil over the top of each coated fillet for added flavor.

Step 7: Bake

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping turns golden brown.

Step 8: Let Rest Before Serving

Once baked, remove from oven and let rest for about 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Boston Baked Cod!

How to Serve Boston Baked Cod

Boston Baked Cod is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. You can elevate the meal with simple additions that enhance the flavors of the baked cod.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch to your meal.

Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli or asparagus seasoned with a sprinkle of salt and lemon juice complements the rich flavors of the cod beautifully.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that balances the texture of the crispy topping on the cod.

Quinoa Pilaf

• A flavorful quinoa pilaf with herbs and spices offers a nutritious and hearty option that pairs perfectly with baked fish.

Lemon Wedges

• Fresh lemon wedges served on the side allow guests to add an extra burst of citrus flavor to their cod fillets.

Crusty Bread

• A slice of crusty whole-grain bread is perfect for soaking up any juices from the cod, making every bite delightful.

How to Perfect Boston Baked Cod

To achieve the best results when making Boston Baked Cod, consider these helpful tips for a flawless dish.

• Choose fresh cod: Freshness is key. Look for firm, translucent fillets without any fishy odor for optimal flavor.

• Pat dry thoroughly: Make sure to pat the cod fillets completely dry before seasoning. This helps achieve a crispy topping during baking.

• Use quality panko: Opt for high-quality panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture. Whole wheat panko can also be used for added flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the dish: Ensure there is enough space between each fillet in your baking dish. This allows even cooking and browning of both the fish and topping.

• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your cod while it bakes. Fish cooks quickly; it’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork but remains moist inside.

Best Side Dishes for Boston Baked Cod

Pairing your Boston Baked Cod with complementary side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these sprouts add a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the fish.

2. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs provides a light yet filling base that absorbs any delicious juices from the cod.

3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a vinegar-based dressing brings crunch and acidity to balance out the dish.

4. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also offer a hint of sweetness that complements savory baked cod.

5. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables and herbs makes for an easy, colorful side that pairs well with fish.

6. Grilled Zucchini: Seasoned grilled zucchini slices add smokiness and freshness, enhancing the overall meal experience.

7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked to perfection brings summer vibes to your table while balancing out richer flavors from the cod.

8. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A blend of chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta creates a protein-packed side that’s vibrant and satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Boston Baked Cod, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not preheating the oven – Failing to preheat can result in uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before placing your cod inside.

• Using wet fillets – Cooking cod that isn’t patted dry can lead to a soggy texture. Make sure to dry the fillets thoroughly with paper towels before seasoning.

• Skipping seasoning – Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t forget to season both sides of the fish generously with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.

• Overcrowding the baking dish – Placing fillets too close together prevents even cooking. Arrange them with space between each piece for optimal results.

• Ignoring the resting time – Cutting into the fish immediately after baking can cause it to lose moisture. Allow it to rest for a couple of minutes before serving for better texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Boston Baked Cod in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Boston Baked Cod

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Frozen cod will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating Boston Baked Cod

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely; heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to prevent drying out, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Boston Baked Cod:

What type of cod is best for this recipe?

You can use any fresh or frozen cod fillets, but thicker cuts work best as they hold up well during baking.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes! This recipe works well with other firm white fish like haddock or pollock if you’re looking for variety.

How do I know when my Boston Baked Cod is done?

The cod should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F when fully cooked.

Can I customize the topping?

Absolutely! Feel free to add grated cheese, herbs, or spices to the panko mixture for a personal touch.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy weekday meals.

Final Thoughts

Boston Baked Cod is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough to suit many tastes. You can customize it with different herbs or toppings according to your preference. We encourage you to give this delicious dish a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Boston Baked Cod

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Boston Baked Cod is a quick, flavorful dish that brings the essence of coastal dining right to your table. Featuring tender cod fillets topped with a crispy panko crust, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Fresh lemon juice and parsley enhance the dish’s bright flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With its impressive presentation and versatility in serving options, Boston Baked Cod is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
• Salt and black pepper
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a baking dish with butter.
2. Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
3. Arrange the fillets in the prepared baking dish, ensuring space between each piece.
4. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in panko breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, and lemon zest until well combined.
5. Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over each fillet, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over each coated fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork and topping is golden brown.
8. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg