Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod Recipe
A delicious and easy-to-make Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod recipe featuring tender cod fillets coated in a flavorful basil pesto and Parmesan cheese mixture, baked to perfection for a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Seasoning & Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides of each fillet with salt and pepper, then arrange them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the basil pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a creamy mixture.
- Coat the Cod: Generously spoon the pesto and Parmesan mixture over each cod fillet, making sure each piece is evenly covered to maximize the flavor.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the Parmesan topping is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked cod from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- You can use either store-bought or homemade basil pesto depending on your preference for convenience or freshness.
- Ensure the cod fillets are patted dry before seasoning to help the pesto adhere better.
- If you prefer, substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: Pesto baked cod, Parmesan cod recipe, healthy fish dinner, Italian seafood dish, easy baked fish, basil pesto fish
Find it online: https://leofoster.com/pesto-parmesan-baked-cod-recipe/
