INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake your cod fillets to perfection.

2. Prepare the Cod: Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, making sure they are evenly spaced apart.

3. Make the Lemon Garlic Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir the ingredients together until well combined, creating a flavorful marinade for the cod.

4. Coat the Cod: Using a brush or spoon, generously coat each cod fillet with the lemon garlic mixture, ensuring that all sides are evenly covered. This step infuses the fish with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic flavors that will delight your taste buds.

5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet with the coated cod fillets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on the fillets to prevent overcooking, as cod can become dry if baked for too long.

6. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the cod fillets from the oven and garnish them with lemon slices and fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of color and flavor. Serve the baked cod hot, alongside your favorite side dishes or atop a bed of steamed vegetables for a light and healthy meal.

Adding Your Own Twist:

Feel free to customize the Baked Cod Dish with Lemon and Garlic to suit your taste preferences. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or dill, to create your own unique flavor profile.