Baked Cod: A Culinary Guide

Introduction

Baked cod is a classic seafood dish that is both versatile and satisfying. Whether you're in the mood for a simple weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party entrée, baked cod is an excellent choice.

Ingredients

* 1 pound cod fillet
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 cup bread crumbs (optional)
* 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or chives)
* Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Pat the cod fillet dry with paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture over the cod fillet.
5. Place the cod fillet on the prepared baking sheet.
6. If desired, sprinkle the bread crumbs and herbs over the cod fillet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Variations

* Panko-crusted baked cod: For a crispier crust, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
* Lemon-herb baked cod: Add 1/4 cup of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs to the olive oil mixture before rubbing it on the cod fillet.
* Spicy baked cod: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the olive oil mixture before rubbing it on the cod fillet.
* Garlic-butter baked cod: Before baking, spread 2 tablespoons of melted butter over the cod fillet and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chopped garlic.

Tips

* For the best results, use fresh cod fillets that are firm to the touch.
* If you don't have parchment paper, you can grease the baking sheet with olive oil or use a nonstick baking sheet.
* The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillet.
* Serve baked cod with your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or rice.

Conclusion

Baked cod is a delicious and versatile seafood dish that is easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying and healthy meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.