Quick Description
This Baked Cod with Spinach and Lemon Butter is a light yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The cod fillets are delicately baked and paired with sautéed spinach, then finished with a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce. It’s high in protein, light on the carbs, and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes
Ingredients List
-
For the Cod:
2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste -
For the Spinach & Lemon Butter Sauce:
2 cups fresh spinach
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cod Fillets
Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake the Cod
Bake the cod fillets in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Sauté the Spinach
While the cod bakes, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook, stirring, until wilted, about 3–4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the lemon juice, lemon zest, and dried thyme (or fresh thyme). Stir until smooth and well combined.
6. Combine and Serve
Once the cod is done baking, place a portion of sautéed spinach on each plate. Top with the cod fillet, then drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the fish and spinach. Garnish with extra thyme or lemon zest if desired.
Additional Notes
- For extra richness, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of the cod before serving.
- You can use other white fish like tilapia or haddock in place of cod.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or quinoa for a complete meal.
Dietary Info
High Protein
Low Carb
Gluten-Free
Dairy-Free (if you omit butter or use a dairy-free alternative)
Protein per serving: approximately 30–35g (depending on the size of the fillets).
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Add Some Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach for a spicy kick.
- Herb Upgrade: Use fresh basil, parsley, or dill in the lemon butter for added freshness.
- Crispy Cod: For a crispy finish, sear the cod fillets in a hot pan for 1–2 minutes before transferring to the oven to bake.
- Nutty Flavor: Top with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cod → Tilapia, Haddock, or Halibut
- Olive Oil → Avocado Oil
- Unsalted Butter → Dairy-Free Butter or Coconut Oil
- Spinach → Kale or Arugula
- Lemon Juice → Lime Juice
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- For a Complete Meal: Serve over mashed cauliflower, rice, or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Make It a Salad: Serve the cod and spinach with a light vinaigrette over mixed greens for a fresh salad option.
- For Extra Flavor: Serve with a side of garlic bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese over the spinach.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, warm the cod and spinach in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- This recipe is not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the fish.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes! Simply thaw the frozen cod in the refrigerator overnight or place it under cold running water for a quicker thaw.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add sautéed mushrooms, asparagus, or zucchini to the spinach for more variety.
Can I use fresh herbs in place of dried thyme?
Yes, fresh thyme works great and adds even more flavor to the dish.
