Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving something that’s bursting with flavor yet wonderfully comforting, this Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe is an absolute keeper! Imagine tender, flaky cod bathed in a luscious, creamy sauce that’s tangy with fresh lemon and beautifully balanced by the richness of coconut milk — it’s a combination that simply sings on the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple, fresh ingredients come together to create such a vibrant dish. Every element plays a crucial role — from the delicate flavor of the cod fillets to the aromatic notes in the sauce that bring this Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe to life.

• Cod fillets (600 grams / 21 oz): Choose fresh, firm fillets—wild-caught if possible for the best texture and flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance the natural taste of the fish without overpowering it.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics, adding a subtle richness.
• Onion (1 medium, thinly sliced): Brings sweetness and depth when cooked down.
• Fresh ginger (1 tbsp, grated): Adds a lovely zing and warmth that pairs beautifully with coconut.
• Garlic cloves (2, crushed): Classic flavor booster that makes the sauce irresistible.
• Coconut milk (1 ¼ cups / 300 ml): The creamy heart of the sauce, lending tropical richness.
• Lemon (juice and zest of 1 large organic lemon): Delivers bright acidity and freshness, perfectly cutting through the creamy coconut.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations

This Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe is so versatile—it’s easy to tailor it just the way you like. Whether you want to tweak flavors or accommodate dietary preferences, these variations make the dish your own in no time.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or fresh chopped chili to the sauce for a subtle, warming heat that pairs wonderfully with the creamy coconut base.
• Dairy Alternative: Swap olive oil for coconut oil to deepen the tropical vibe, or use lime instead of lemon for a sharper citrus note.
• Herb Boost: Stir in chopped fresh cilantro or parsley just before serving to add a bright, herbal freshness.
• Different Fish: Try this sauce over other firm white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia for a similar texture and flavor profile.

How to Make Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Season the Cod

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) so it’s nice and ready when your cod and sauce come together. While it heats, season the cod fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides—this simple step sets the foundation for amazing flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the thinly sliced onion. Cook gently until the onion becomes translucent and soft, which unlocks its natural sweetness. Then, add the grated fresh ginger and crushed garlic, stirring constantly for about a minute so their fragrant flavors infuse the oil without burning.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce

Pour the coconut milk into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to meld with the ginger, garlic, and onion flavors. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, which brighten the sauce and add a perfectly balanced tang that complements the creamy coconut beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Place the seasoned cod fillets in a single layer in a baking dish, then lovingly pour the coconut lemon cream sauce over the top, making sure each fillet gets coated in that luscious sauce. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the fish is tender and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the baked cod from the oven and spoon extra sauce over each serving. This dish is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with fluffy rice or buttery vegetables makes for a perfectly balanced, satisfying meal.

How to Serve Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten your plate by sprinkling freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley over the baked cod just before serving. A few thin lemon slices or extra lemon zest on top add visual appeal and amplify the citrus notes in the sauce.

Side Dishes

This rich and creamy cod pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up every bit of the sauce. Roasted or steamed green vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add refreshing crunch and color contrast to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the cod over a bed of coconut-infused rice and drizzle the sauce artistically around. Using a shallow, wide dish to bake and serve means the sauce stays beautifully visible and inviting at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover baked cod and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making it a convenient yet delicious next-day meal option.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked cod and sauce in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Just be aware that the sauce might separate slightly when thawed, but a gentle reheating and stir will bring it back together nicely.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in a microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally to restore the creamy consistency without overcooking the fish.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together so effortlessly. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend treat, it’s sure to win hearts and taste buds. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite!

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