Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus

Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful seafood dish? This Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus is the perfect recipe! Made with flaky cod fillets, a rich lemon butter sauce, and roasted asparagus, this dish is packed with nutrients and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or Mediterranean diet, this easy baked cod recipe is a must-try. Keep reading to learn how to make this restaurant-quality meal at home with simple ingredients!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Baked Cod Recipe

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s why you’ll love it:

1. Quick & Easy

With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

2. Healthy & Nutritious

Cod is rich in lean protein and omega-3s, while asparagus adds fiber and vitamins, making this meal both light and satisfying.

3. Diet-Friendly

This dish is low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free, fitting into various healthy eating plans.

4. Amazing Flavor

The lemon butter sauce enhances the mild cod with a zesty, garlicky, and buttery taste, keeping it moist and tender.

5. Simple Yet Impressive

With minimal effort, you get a restaurant-quality seafood dish that’s both easy to make and delicious to eat.

Oven-Baked Cod with Lemon Butter & Asparagus – Healthy & Delicious — This Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus is light, flavorful, and packed with nutrients—perfect for a quick and healthy dinner!

Ingredients for Baked Cod with Lemon Butter and Asparagus

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that enhance the natural flavors of the fish. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Cod Fillets

Use fresh or frozen cod (thawed) for the best results.
Atlantic or Pacific cod both work well, offering a mild, flaky texture.

2. Fresh Asparagus

Choose firm, bright green spears for the best flavor.
Trim the woody ends to ensure tenderness when roasted.

3. Lemon Butter Sauce

Butter: Adds richness and keeps the cod moist and flaky.
Lemon Juice: Enhances the flavor with a fresh, citrusy brightness.
Garlic (Minced): Adds depth and aroma to the sauce.

4. Seasonings

Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors.
Paprika (Optional): Adds a mild smokiness and color.
Italian Seasoning or Fresh Herbs: A mix of oregano, thyme, and parsley enhances the dish.

5. Olive Oil

Helps roast the asparagus to perfection while keeping it tender-crisp.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Baked Cod

Follow these simple steps to make perfectly moist and flavorful Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus in under 30 minutes.

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Season the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel.
Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.

3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce

In a small bowl, melt butter, then mix in lemon juice, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.
Drizzle half of the sauce over the cod fillets.

4. Arrange the Asparagus

Place trimmed asparagus spears around the cod.
Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently.

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

6. Add the Final Touch

Drizzle the remaining lemon butter sauce over the baked cod and asparagus.
Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon slices for a bright, fresh finish.

For more tips on how to perfectly bake cod and ensure the best texture and flavor, check out this comprehensive guide to cooking cod from Serious Eats.

Expert Tips for Cooking Cod Perfectly

Cooking cod can be simple, but these expert tips will help you achieve the best texture and flavor every time.

1. Choose High-Quality Cod

Use fresh or frozen cod fillets with firm, white flesh.
If using frozen cod, thaw it overnight in the fridge for even cooking.

2. Pat the Fillets Dry

Moisture prevents a good sear and can make the fish watery.
Use a paper towel to remove excess moisture before seasoning.

3. Season Simply but Well

Salt enhances the natural flavor of cod.
Adding paprika, garlic, and lemon gives depth without overpowering.

4. Don’t Overcook

Cod cooks quickly! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches 145°F (63°C).

5. Use a Flavorful Sauce

A lemon butter sauce keeps cod moist and tender while enhancing flavor.
Drizzle half before baking and the rest after for maximum taste.

6. Let It Rest Before Serving

Allow cod to sit for 2 minutes after baking so juices redistribute, keeping it flaky and moist.

What to Serve with Lemon Butter Baked Cod

This dish pairs well with light and flavorful sides. Here are some great options:

Garlic Butter Rice – Absorbs the lemon butter sauce beautifully.
Roasted Baby Potatoes – Crispy outside, fluffy inside, and perfect with cod.
Steamed Green Beans – A simple, healthy veggie side.
Cucumber & Tomato Salad – Refreshing and bright for balance.
Whole Wheat Couscous – Quick, wholesome, and slightly nutty.

For drinks, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Chardonnay enhances the flavors.

Simple Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus – A Quick & Healthy Meal — Enjoy this Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus, a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes! Perfect for a light yet satisfying dinner.

Lemon Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus is a simple, healthy, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender, flaky texture and rich lemon butter sauce, this dish is both light and satisfying. Paired with your favorite sides, it makes for a balanced and delicious dinner. Try this recipe today for an easy, restaurant-quality seafood dish at home!