Introduction:
Baked Blackened Cod is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the bold spices of blackened seasoning with the mild, flaky texture of cod. Instead of frying, this recipe uses the oven to bake the fish, making it a healthier alternative while retaining all the delicious flavors.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients:
4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Rub the fillets with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the blackened seasoning mixture over the fillets, pressing gently to ensure the spices stick to the fish.
Place the fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Description:
Baked Blackened Cod is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the smoky, spicy heat of blackened seasoning with the delicate taste of cod. The fish is baked in the oven, ensuring it remains tender and juicy, while the spice blend creates a crispy crust on top. The result is a savory, satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, from roasted vegetables to rice or a fresh salad.
Tips:
Make sure to pat the cod fillets dry before applying the seasoning; this helps the spices adhere better.
Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preference if you want a spicier kick.
If you don’t have cod, other white fish like tilapia, halibut, or haddock can be used as substitutes.
For a slightly richer flavor, you can brush the fish with a little melted butter instead of olive oil before seasoning.
To ensure the cod doesn’t dry out, check the fish at the 12-minute mark; it should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Variations:
Spicy Blackened Cod: Add more cayenne pepper or even some chili flakes for an extra spicy version.
Herb-Infused Cod: Add a teaspoon of dried basil or rosemary to the spice mix for added depth of flavor.
Lemon-Pepper Cod: Instead of the blackened seasoning, use a simple lemon pepper seasoning for a lighter flavor.
Parmesan-Crusted Cod: After seasoning with the blackened spices, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top and broil for the last 2 minutes for a crispy, cheesy finish.
Correction:
If you find the fish is overcooking and drying out, reduce the cooking time or lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Cod is best cooked quickly at a high temperature to keep its texture moist and tender.
Enjoy! Now that you’ve prepared this flavorful Baked Blackened Cod, sit back and enjoy your delicious, spicy meal! Pair it with your favorite sides and savor the bold, mouth-watering flavors. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.