Lemon-Herb Crusted Cod with Roasted Asparagus

Looking for easy fish recipes? This baked cod with lemon-herb crust and roasted asparagus is a weeknight winner! So flavorful and healthy. Get the recipe!

May 21, 2025
By Laura Tide.

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Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever stare into your fridge wondering what to cook? craving something light and tasty? then these fish recipes are for you! this lemon-herb crusted cod will have you hooked.

It's bright, zesty, and oh-so-easy.

Brief Overview

This baked cod is a modern twist on classic flavors. i first had something like this in a pub, and it has become a household favorite.

This is an easy dish to make, ready in under 40 minutes. this recipe serves four hungry people.

Main Benefits

Eating more fish is great for your brain and heart. it's packed with omega-3s. this recipe is perfect for a light summer dinner.

Trust me, this will become a regular in your rotation.

Lemon-Herb Crusted Cod with Roasted Asparagus Recipe Card

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Preparation time:15 Mins

Cooking time:20 Mins

Servings:4 servings

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (55g) panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) salt
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.6ml) black pepper
• 4 (6-ounce/170g) cod fillets, skinless
• 1 pound (450g) asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C/Gas Mark 6).
• Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the baking sheet. Spread in a single layer.
• In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the asparagus for 10 minutes.
• Place cod fillets on the baking sheet alongside the asparagus. Season with salt and pepper.
• Evenly distribute the lemon-herb crust over the cod fillets, gently pressing to adhere.
• Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
• Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Getting Ready to Grill: The Prep

First, let's get our oven hot. Preheat it to 400° F ( 200° C). I always prep my grilling sides dishes before starting the main course. This way, everything comes together smoothly.

Next, we need our asparagus. Toss 450g of asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet. Simple as that!

Making the Magic: Lemon-Herb Crust

Now for the best part. the lemon-herb crust! in a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup), olive oil (1/4 cup), parsley (2 tablespoons), thyme (1 tablespoon), lemon zest (1 tablespoon), minced garlic (1 clove), salt (1/4 teaspoon), and pepper (1/8 teaspoon).

Honestly, this crust smells amazing.

This crust is also amazing on chicken. Just an FYI.

From Oven to Table: Baking and Serving

Pop the asparagus into the oven for 10 minutes. after 10 minutes, add the cod fillets. top them with the lemon-herb crust.

Make sure to gently press it down. then, bake for another 10- 12 minutes. you'll know the cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges. A squeeze of lemon really makes it pop. You could also serve with a Grilled Corn On Cob .

Grilling Corn Recipe: A Perfect Pairing

Speaking of sides, ever tried a grilled corn recipe ? throw some corn on the cob on the bbq corn while the fish cooks! just brush it with butter and grill until slightly charred.

It goes perfectly with the cod. we love doing this for a backyard gathering . so, basically, we're making fancy grilled food but keeping it simple.

The Wrap-Up

This Lemon-Herb Crusted Cod is a winner. It's easy, healthy, and bursting with flavor. So, ditch the takeout and give this recipe a try! You won't regret it.

Alright, let's get this fish recipes supper cracking! consider me your personal culinary gordon ramsay. minus the shouting, of course… mostly.

Here's the lowdown on what you'll need for some proper good grub!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Do This!

Main Ingredients: The Starry Line-Up

Okay, so we are making Lemon-Herb Crusted Cod with Roasted Asparagus, so its all about the freshest ingredients, it helps a lot.

• Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup ( 55g ).
• Olive oil: 1/4 cup ( 60ml ). A good quality olive oil makes all the difference.
• Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ), chopped. Seriously, get fresh!
• Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ), chopped. Smells divine, doesn’t it?
• Lemon zest: 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ), from 1 lemon.
• Garlic: 1 clove , minced.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.25ml ).
• Black pepper: 1/8 teaspoon ( 0.6ml ).
• Cod fillets: 4 (6-ounce/ 170g ), skinless. Aim for thick, firm fillets – no fishy smells!
• Asparagus: 1 pound ( 450g ), trimmed. Snap off the tough ends.
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ).
• Salt and pepper: To taste. You know the drill.
• Lemon wedges: For serving. Essential!

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up

This is where the magic happens. We are making fish recipes and it's all about Grilled Food .

• Essential spice combinations: Lemon zest + fresh herbs = flavor explosion.
• Flavor enhancers and aromatics: Garlic is key, but a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
• Quick substitution options: No thyme? Dried oregano works in a pinch.

Thinking about sides? This begs for some Grilling Sides Dishes Summer , doesn't it? I absolutely love a good Grilled Corn Recipe along with it.

Honestly, nothing screams backyard gathering like a fantastic grilled corn on cob served alongside this fish. i remember one time, trying to impress my friends with a grilled sweet corn and totally charred it! lesson learned: low and slow is the way to go, even with bbq corn .

Ever since then my grilled corn on the cob always taste amazing!

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• Baking sheet. A good, sturdy one.
• Small bowl. For mixing the crust.
• Lemon zester. Microplanes are your best bet.
• Garlic press (optional). Honestly, I just mince it with a knife.

Looking to use your grill? instead of the oven consider using some grilled corn recipes . this combination just feels like summer .

Try experimenting with different sides and vegetables for fish recipes and let me know what you think!

I hope you give this amazing recipe for fish recipes a try!

Right, let's dive into lemon-herb crusted cod with roasted asparagus: a taste of spring ! honestly, i think it's amazing, and the fresh flavors are perfect when you're planning a backyard gathering ! you know, the sun's out, and you need some grilled food without actually firing up the grill.

Cooking Method: Baking Like a Boss

Listen, don't be scared off by the fancy name. this recipe is super easy. it's easier than making beans on toast! i promise.

Baking the cod locks in all the moisture and that lemony-herb flavor. seriously delicious, and perfect alongside some grilling sides dishes summer style.

Before we dive in, let's get our ducks in a row. this simple yet elegant dish showcases flaky cod fillets topped with a vibrant lemon-herb crust and served alongside tender roasted asparagus.

A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors, making it a healthy and delicious meal that's sure to impress. think "mary berry meets rick stein.

"

Prep Steps: Get Your Act Together

Essential mise en place , my friends! It's French, and it means "everything in its place." Have all your ingredients measured and chopped before you start. Trust me; it's a lifesaver.

Time-saving organization tip: Use little bowls! They're your best friend. Put the lemon zest in one, the chopped herbs in another. Makes life so much easier! And no one wants the stress.

Safety Reminder: Don't be a dingus and burn yourself. Use oven mitts. Seriously. I know it sounds obvious, but you would be surprised.

Step-by-Step Process: The Easy Bit

1. Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . We want it hot!
2. Toss asparagus with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it on a baking sheet.
3. Mix crust ingredients . In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons parsley, 1 tablespoon thyme, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
4. Bake asparagus for 10 minutes .
5. Add cod . Place 4 cod fillets next to the asparagus. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Top with crust . Press it on gently, so it sticks.
7. Bake again for 10- 12 minutes . Cook until cod flakes easily.
8. Serve with lemon wedges.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Fish Game

Honestly, don't overcook the fish. it goes dry real quick. you know that flakiness? that's your cue. high heat is key: roasting at a high temperature ensures that the asparagus cooks quickly and stays crisp-tender.

Also, if you're planning on grilling anything for grilling sides dishes summer you can even use this dish as the main event.

Another tip: Fresh herbs are ALWAYS better than dried. It makes a difference.

And last but not least, you can make the crust ahead of time. Store it in the fridge, and you're halfway there!

Now, you might be thinking, "what about grilled corn recipe ?" well, this dish pairs perfectly with some grilled corn on the cob or some grilled sweet corn .

Think of it as a lighter, healthier alternative to the usual bbq corn . plus, if you are searching fish recipes , this is a winner.

For something different, try this instead of grilled corn recipes . seriously, it is great for a backyard gathering , and it makes a change from other grilled food .

This dish makes 4 servings, so it's just the ticket for a small group. Enjoy!

Alright, mate, let's talk about makin' this lemon-herb crusted cod even better, shall we? i'm gonna share some extra tips and tricks that'll make your cooking experience smoother than a freshly paved road! we are focusing on all types of fish recipes today.

Recipe Notes

Serving Suggestions: Plating & Presentation Ideas

Honestly, this dish is gorgeous as it is. but you know, presentation is everything! for a restaurant-worthy plating, arrange the asparagus nicely on the plate.

Then, place the cod fillet on top. drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil. a sprinkle of fresh parsley is a must.

You could serve this with some grilled sides dishes summer style! how about a grilled corn recipe ? seriously! it would be amazing! some charred kernels next to that flaky cod? chef's kiss.

I remember once, I plated this up for a Backyard Gathering . Everyone thought I'd hired a caterer. Haha! And the best part is the Grilled Corn On The Cob recipe is as simple as the Cod Recipe!

For a casual meal, just pile everything on a plate. No fuss, no muss. You know?

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Got leftovers? No worries, stick them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freezing is an option.

Refrigeration Guidelines

Keep the cod and asparagus separate if possible. this stops the asparagus from getting soggy. reheat in a preheated oven at 350° f ( 175° c) or in a skillet on low heat.

Microwaving will work in a pinch, but the crust won't be as crispy.

Freezing Options

Honestly, i don't usually freeze cooked fish recipes . it can get a bit dry. but, if you must, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.

Freeze for up to 1 month. thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat from frozen, put it into the oven for 25- 30 minutes at 350° F ( 175° C).

Variations: Playing with Flavors

Feel like mixing it up a bit? You got it!

Dietary Adaptations

• Low-Carb: Swap the panko for crushed almond flour. Works a treat!
• Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just double-check your breadcrumbs.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Instead of asparagus, try green beans in the summer. Or maybe some roasted Brussels sprouts in the winter. Get creative, mate!

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

This dish is packed with protein from the cod. Asparagus adds fibre and vitamins. The lemon provides a boost of Vitamin C. It's a win-win!

Estimated nutritional information per serving:

• Calories: About 350
• Protein: Roughly 35g
• Fat: Around 18g
• Carbs: About 12g

Did you know that cod is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids? Good for your heart, good for your brain!

This grilled food pairs really well with this dish during summer . you can prepare your grilled sweet corn , or make some bbq corn , or if you want it a little bit simple, make some grilled corn on the cob .

Alright, there you have it! Some extra bits and bobs to make your fish recipes experience even better. Go on, give it a go. You'll nail it!