Flaky and flavorful, Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant taste of basil pesto and crispy Parmesan cheese to your dinner table. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. With its Mediterranean flair, it’s sure to impress family and friends while being simple enough for everyday cooking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious seafood dish ready in no time.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of basil pesto and Parmesan creates a rich and savory flavor that elevates the mild taste of cod.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with your favorite sides like quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors from the pesto and garnishes make for an attractive dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowls
- Cooking spray or brush
- Fish spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Provides even cooking for your cod fillets while holding all the ingredients together.
- Measuring cups: Ensures you add the right amounts of each ingredient for consistent flavor.
- Fish spatula: Perfectly lifts delicate fish fillets without breaking them apart.
Ingredients
Flaky cod fillets coated with vibrant basil pesto and crispy Parmesan cheese, baked until perfectly tender and flavorful.
For the Cod
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- ½ cup fresh basil pesto
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Garnish
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
How to Make Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Season the Cod Fillets
Pat dry the cod fillets with paper towels. In a small bowl:
1. Mix together the garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly across both sides of the cod.
Step 4: Add Pesto to Cod
Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spread an even layer of fresh basil pesto over each fillet, ensuring full coverage on top and sides.
Step 5: Top with Parmesan
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the pesto-coated fillets. Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the cheese to enhance flavor and crispiness during baking.
Step 6: Bake in Oven
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Cook until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and basil leaves. Serve immediately with your choice of side, such as quinoa or steamed vegetables.
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod!
How to Serve Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod
Serving Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. The flaky texture and rich flavors of the cod pair beautifully with various sides and garnishes, making your meal both satisfying and visually appealing.
With Fresh Lemon Wedges
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the baked cod for an added zesty flavor that complements the pesto and Parmesan.
On a Bed of Quinoa
- Serve the cod on a bed of fluffy quinoa, which absorbs any juices and adds a nutty taste to each bite.
Accompanied by Steamed Vegetables
- Brightly colored steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli provide a healthy crunch and vibrant contrast to the dish.
Topped with Extra Pesto
- Drizzle additional basil pesto over the baked cod before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
With Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of warm, crusty bread on the side to soak up any delicious juices from the dish.
How to Perfect Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod
To ensure your Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
Select Fresh Cod: Choose high-quality cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Fresh fish will yield a more tender result.
Use Homemade Pesto: If possible, make your own basil pesto. It enhances flavor and freshness compared to store-bought versions.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the baking time. Cod should be cooked until it is opaque and flakes easily; overcooking can lead to dryness.
Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings according to your taste. Add chili flakes for heat or more garlic powder if you love garlic.
Let it Rest: Allow the baked cod to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps retain moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod
Pairing side dishes with your Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors perfectly.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with fish.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a savory depth that contrasts nicely with the flaky cod.
Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs offers a fresh Mediterranean vibe that enhances your meal.
Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb option that still feels hearty alongside your fish.
Cauliflower Rice: A healthy alternative to regular rice, cauliflower rice is light and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf packed with herbs complements the Italian-inspired elements of this dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod, it’s essential to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the cod before adding pesto can lead to bland fish. Always sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides of the fillets for enhanced flavor.
Using stale or low-quality pesto: Pesto is a key ingredient in this recipe. Using a fresh, high-quality basil pesto ensures vibrant taste. Consider making your own if possible!
Overbaking the cod: Cooking the cod for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on it and remove from the oven once it flakes easily with a fork.
Neglecting to grease the baking dish: Failing to grease the dish can lead to sticking. Use olive oil to coat the dish lightly before placing the cod inside.
Not allowing for resting time: Serving immediately after baking can result in loss of moisture. Letting it rest for a few minutes helps retain juices and enhances flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag; they will keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cod in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat skillet over medium-low heat. Add cod carefully and cover with a lid, reheating for about 5-7 minutes until warmed completely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cod is best for Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod?
Fresh Atlantic or Pacific cod works best due to its flaky texture and mild flavor, which pairs wonderfully with pesto.
Can I use frozen cod fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets! Just ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning and baking for even cooking.
How do I customize my Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod?
You can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini alongside the fish in the baking dish for added nutrition and flavor variety.
What side dishes go well with Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod?
Pair this dish with quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad for a complete meal that is healthy and satisfying.
Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?
Certainly! If you’re looking for dairy-free options, nutritional yeast or vegan cheese can be used as alternatives.
Final Thoughts
Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod is not only delicious but also versatile. Its flaky texture combined with vibrant flavors makes it an appealing choice for any dinner table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or serving it with different sides. Don’t hesitate; try this simple yet impressive recipe today!
SEO Information
Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod
Pesto Parmesan Baked Cod is a wonderfully simple yet impressive dish that combines the delicate flakiness of cod with the bold flavors of basil pesto and crispy Parmesan cheese. Perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those busy evenings when you still want something delicious and satisfying. The vibrant colors and rich taste will surely delight your family and guests alike. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a wholesome meal that’s packed with protein and essential nutrients.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
- ½ cup fresh basil pesto
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Lemon slices and fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Pat cod fillets dry and season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the seasoned fillets in the baking dish; spread basil pesto evenly on top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the pesto-coated fillets; drizzle remaining olive oil on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Choose high-quality, fresh cod for optimal flavor. Homemade pesto can enhance the dish's freshness. Adjust seasonings to your taste; add chili flakes for heat if desired.
