Looking for easy cod recipes? Cod, with its mild flavor and flaky texture, is a weeknight hero. It cooks up quickly and takes on flavors beautifully, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you crave a satisfying meal without the fuss. Here are 7 quick and easy cod recipes that will have you saying “dinner is served!” in no time.

Why is Cod a Weeknight Wonder?

• Speed Demon: Cod cooks incredibly fast, whether you’re baking, pan-frying, or broiling it.
• Mild Mannered: Its delicate flavor pairs well with a wide range of seasonings and sauces.
• Budget-Friendly: Cod is often more affordable than other white fish, making it a wallet-friendly choice.

Quick Cod Cooking Tips

• Thaw Properly: If using frozen cod, be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook: Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Overcooking will make it dry.
• Pat It Dry: Patting the cod dry with paper towels before cooking helps it sear nicely and prevents sticking.

Now, let’s get cooking!

1. Lemon Herb Baked Cod

This simple recipe highlights the natural flavors of the cod with a bright lemon and herb topping.

Ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place cod fillets in a baking dish.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Top with lemon slices and herbs.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.

2. Pan-Fried Cod with Garlic Butter

A classic combination that never disappoints.

Ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add cod to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and garnish with parsley.

3. Cod with Tomatoes and Capers

A Mediterranean-inspired dish with bright, tangy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh basil or oregano, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
2. Add cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers. Cook for 5 minutes, or until tomatoes soften.
3. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper and add to the skillet.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Stir in lemon juice and garnish with fresh herbs.

4. Crispy Panko-Crusted Cod

A simple way to add a satisfying crunch to your cod.

Ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a shallow dish.
3. Dip cod fillets in beaten egg, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
5. Sear cod for 2 minutes per side, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.

5. Spicy Blackened Cod

Add a Cajun kick to your weeknight with this flavorful recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme   
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Combine all spices in a small bowl.
2. Rub spice mixture all over cod fillets.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear cod for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

6. Cod with Creamy Lemon Dill Sauce

A simple yet elegant dish with a bright and tangy sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sauce:
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook cod for 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove cod from skillet and set aside.
4. Add heavy cream, wine (if using), lemon juice, and dill to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Stir in Dijon mustard and return cod to the skillet.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

7. Asian-Inspired Cod with Ginger and Soy

This recipe infuses cod with bold Asian flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Sesame seeds and green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a bowl.
2. Marinate cod fillets in the mixture for at least 15 minutes.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Cook cod for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Comparison Table:

With these quick and easy cod recipes, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy seafood dinner any night of the week!