Baked Coconut Lemon Cod Recipe
Introduction
Baked cod is a simple, flavorful dish that combines tender white fish with a creamy, citrusy sauce. This recipe brings together aromatic spices and coconut milk to create a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients
- 4 thick cod fillets
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 medium onion, sautéed until translucent
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Step 2: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper onto the cod fillets.
- Step 3: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Step 4: Pour in the coconut milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir and let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
- Step 5: Place the seasoned cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the warm sauce evenly over the fish.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley added just before serving brighten the dish.
Storage
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated carefully for a quick meal.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cod fillets can be used. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even baking.
Is there a substitute for coconut milk in this dish?
If you prefer, you can substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream, but keep in mind the flavor and consistency will vary slightly.
PrintBaked Coconut Lemon Cod Recipe
This Baked Cod recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets seasoned with salt and pepper, baked in a creamy coconut milk sauce infused with fresh lemon juice, ginger, garlic, and sautéed onions. The rich, citrusy sauce complements the mild flavor of the cod perfectly, making it a simple yet elegant dish that’s easy to prepare for dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Global/Modern
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 thick cod fillets
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 can (400 ml) full-fat coconut milk
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it’s at the ideal temperature for baking the cod evenly and thoroughly.
- Season Cod: Generously sprinkle the cod fillets with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent. Then add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until fragrant—this builds the flavorful base of the sauce.
- Prepare Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk, then stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. Let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes to combine the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
- Assemble for Baking: Place the seasoned cod fillets in a baking dish. Pour the coconut milk sauce evenly over the cod, ensuring each fillet is nicely coated.
- Bake: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is perfectly cooked.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright citrus flavor.
- Make sure not to overcook the cod to keep it moist and tender.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a bit longer before pouring over the fish.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or sautéed greens.
Keywords: baked cod, cod fish recipe, coconut milk sauce, easy fish dinner, healthy seafood, lemon ginger cod

