Baked Cod Coconut Lemon

This baked cod in coconut lemon cream sauce is a light but indulgent seafood dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The tender, flaky cod gets bathed in a velvety sauce made from creamy coconut milk, fresh lemon, and a hint of ginger, creating a beautiful balance of flavors that feels fresh and comforting. It’s a recipe that has become one of my favorites because it’s both elegant enough to serve guests and simple enough to whip up after a long day.

This was the first seafood dish I tried that combined these flavors, and it quickly became a family favorite. I especially love how the ginger adds a subtle warmth that lifts the whole dish.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Cod fillets: about 21 ounces or 600 grams — choose fresh or thawed for the best flaky texture
• Salt and black pepper: to taste — these enhance the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it
• Olive oil: two tablespoons — provides a fruity richness when sautéing the aromatics
• One medium onion: thinly sliced — adds natural sweetness to the sauce so it rounds out the citrus and coconut
• One tablespoon grated fresh ginger: essential for its aromatic zing and warmth — pick firm, smooth ginger roots
• Two garlic cloves: crushed — garlic gives a savory depth that complements the coconut base
• Coconut milk: one and a quarter cups or 300 milliliters — use unsweetened full-fat for creaminess and a subtle tropical flavor
• Juice and zest of one large lemon: brightens the sauce and balances the richness of the coconut milk
• Optional red pepper flakes or diced chili: for a little heat if you prefer some spice in your cream sauce

How to Make It

Preheat the Oven:

Begin by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 180 degrees Celsius. This ensures it is fully heated and ready to cook your fish evenly once you start.

Season the Cod:

Generously sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides of the cod fillets. This simple seasoning draws out the fish’s natural flavors and helps create a subtle crust as it bakes.

Prepare the Sauce:

In a large skillet, heat up two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced onion and sauté gently until translucent and softened, about three to four minutes. Add the grated ginger and crushed garlic to the pan and cook for another minute or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Add the Sauce Ingredients:

Add the coconut milk to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest, mixing thoroughly to combine all the flavors. Let the sauce thicken slightly while you prepare the baking dish.

Assemble and Bake:

In a baking dish, arrange the seasoned cod fillets in a single layer for even cooking. Pour the luscious coconut lemon cream sauce over the fish, ensuring each piece is well coated. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for twenty to twenty-five minutes. The cod should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork.

Serve:

Remove the dish from the oven carefully and scoop the cod onto plates. Drizzle the creamy sauce generously over the fish and serve alongside your favorite sides such as fluffy steamed rice or a medley of sautéed or roasted vegetables.

One memorable time I made this dish for a family dinner, the leftovers were gone by morning because everyone kept sneaking bites while it cooled.

Flavor Boosters

This creamy baked cod pairs wonderfully with fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice to echo the tropical flavors. Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or wilted spinach offer fresh, green accompaniments that balance the richness of the dish. A simple side salad with citrus vinaigrette also complements it beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

In warmer months, try adding fresh diced tomatoes to the sauce for a bright summery twist. During cooler seasons, incorporating a handful of sautéed mushrooms or kale can add earthiness and seasonal nutrition. The sauce also works nicely as a base for shellfish like shrimp when you want to change things up.

Creative Twists

Home cooks rave about how this recipe turns simple cod fillets into a dinner that feels special. Many have shared that the lemon and coconut blend is unexpected but addictively good, making this one of their go-to ways to serve fish.

With its balance of fresh citrus and creamy coconut, this baked cod always impresses both guests and family. It’s a simple recipe that feels gourmet yet comes together easily on busy nights.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of fish works best for this dish?

Cod is the ideal choice due to its mild flavor and flaky texture that absorbs the creamy coconut-lemon sauce well.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally dairy-free using coconut milk and olive oil instead of butter, making it suitable for dairy-free diets.

→ How do I add a spicy kick to the sauce?

Adding red pepper flakes or diced chili to the coconut-lemon cream sauce provides a nice heat that complements the rich flavors.

→ What sides pair well with baked cod in coconut lemon sauce?

Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, or rice are excellent side options to complete the meal.

→ How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

When the fish easily flakes with a fork and has turned opaque throughout, it is perfectly baked and ready to serve.