Easy Cod Recipe with Lemon and Garlic in 20 Min

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure your rack is in the center position for even heat circulation.
2. Pat the 1.5 lbs cod fillets completely dry. Use multiple paper towels until the surface is matte. Note: Excess moisture causes the fish to steam rather than roast.
3. Season the fish with 1 tsp Kosher salt, 0.5 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp smoked paprika. Ensure the coating is even and visible.
4. Melt 4 tbsp unsalted butter in a small bowl and whisk in 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp lemon zest, and 2 tbsp lemon juice.
5. Place the fish in a baking dish and pour the lemon garlic-butter mixture over the top.
6. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the fish is opaque and the butter is bubbling and sizzling.
7. Smell for the garlic: Around the 10 minute mark, the kitchen should smell nutty and savory, not burnt.
8. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part; the meat should shatter into clean, moist flakes.
9. Garnish with 2 tbsp fresh parsley immediately after removing from the heat. Note: The residual heat will wake up the parsley's oils without wilting it into brown mush.
10. Rest for 3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute through the muscle fibers.