Baked Cod Mustard Lemon Cream: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Baked Cod Mustard Lemon Cream: Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple dish! Imagine flaky, tender cod bathed in a luscious, tangy sauce that will have your taste buds singing. This isn’t just another fish recipe; it’s an experience.

While the exact origins of combining mustard, lemon, and cream with fish are difficult to pinpoint, the concept of using acidic elements like lemon to brighten seafood and creamy sauces to add richness has been a culinary staple for centuries, particularly in coastal regions of Europe. Think of the classic French beurre blanc, a testament to the power of simple, elegant sauces.

What makes this Baked Cod Mustard Lemon Cream so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors. The sharp tang of Dijon mustard cuts through the richness of the cream, while the lemon adds a bright, zesty note that elevates the entire dish. The cod itself remains delicate and moist, absorbing all the wonderful flavors of the sauce. But beyond the taste, it’s also incredibly convenient. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal. People love it because it’s impressive enough for guests, yet easy enough for a busy weeknight. Plus, it’s a healthy and delicious way to enjoy seafood!

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Cod fillets, skinless and boneless
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Lemon slices for garnish

Preparing the Cod and Mustard Cream Sauce

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to cook the cod evenly and quickly.
2. Prepare the cod fillets. Gently pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture and allows the fish to brown nicely in the oven. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – cod can be a bit bland on its own.
3. Make the mustard cream sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, heavy cream, dry white wine, lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Make sure everything is well combined. The white wine adds a lovely depth of flavor to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning of the sauce. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to taste. The sauce should be tangy, creamy, and flavorful. Remember that the flavors will intensify as the sauce cooks.

Baking the Cod

1. Prepare the baking dish. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This prevents the cod from sticking to the dish and makes cleanup easier. You can use a baking dish that is large enough to hold all the cod fillets in a single layer.
2. Arrange the cod fillets in the baking dish. Place the seasoned cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, making sure they are not overlapping. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking.
3. Pour the mustard cream sauce over the cod fillets. Evenly distribute the sauce over the cod, ensuring that each fillet is well coated. The sauce will help to keep the cod moist and flavorful during baking.
4. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the sauce-covered cod fillets. The Parmesan cheese will melt and create a golden-brown crust on top of the fish.
5. Bake in the preheated oven. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the cod fillets. Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it is done.
6. Optional: Broil for a golden crust. If you want a more golden-brown crust on top of the cod, you can broil it for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving and Garnishing

1. Remove the baked cod from the oven. Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and prevents the fish from falling apart when you serve it.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the baked cod. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
3. Serve immediately. Serve the baked cod immediately while it is still hot and flavorful.
4. Optional: Garnish with lemon slices. Add lemon slices for an extra touch of elegance and a burst of fresh citrus flavor.

Tips and Variations

• Use other types of fish. If you don’t have cod on hand, you can substitute it with other types of white fish, such as haddock, pollock, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different types of fish may cook at different rates.
• Add vegetables to the baking dish. You can add vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish along with the cod. This makes it a complete one-pan meal. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the dish.
• Make it spicy. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mustard cream sauce for a touch of heat.
• Use different herbs. Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or dill, to add different flavors to the dish.
• Make it dairy-free. Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Add breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Before baking, sprinkle the cod with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter for extra crunch.
• Pair with sides. Serve the baked cod with sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or quinoa. A simple green salad also makes a great accompaniment.

Make Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the mustard cream sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you are ready to bake the cod, simply pour the sauce over the fish and bake as directed.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 5-10g

Why This Recipe Works

This Baked Cod with Mustard Lemon Cream recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality dish in under 30 minutes. The combination of Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, lemon juice, and garlic creates a tangy and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the mild flavor of the cod. The heavy cream adds richness and creaminess, while the Parmesan cheese provides a golden-brown crust. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. This recipe is also versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Cod with Mustard Lemon Cream is delicious served with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or carrots are all great choices.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with fish.
• Rice: Serve with white rice, brown rice, or wild rice.
• Quinoa: Quinoa is a healthy and nutritious side dish.
• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing accompaniment.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Baked Cod with Mustard Lemon Cream recipe as much as I do! It’s a simple, elegant, and flavorful dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Conclusion:

This Baked Cod with Mustard Lemon Cream is truly a game-changer, and I wholeheartedly believe you need to experience it for yourself. It’s not just a meal; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate, a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something extraordinary. The flaky, tender cod, infused with the bright zest of lemon and the subtle tang of mustard, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce – it’s a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly easy to achieve.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests. Because it’s healthy and satisfying, packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. And most importantly, because it tastes absolutely divine! It’s a dish that will impress even the most discerning palates, and leave everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!).

But the beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity and flavor but also in its versatility. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a heartier meal, serve the Baked Cod with Mustard Lemon Cream over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy quinoa. The sauce soaks into the grains beautifully, creating a truly comforting and satisfying experience. Roasted asparagus or steamed green beans make excellent side dishes, adding a touch of freshness and color to the plate.

Looking for variations? Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley to the sauce for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a subtle kick of heat. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the cod with another white fish, such as halibut or sea bass. The mustard lemon cream sauce works wonderfully with a variety of seafood. You could even add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

For a lighter option, serve the Baked Cod with Mustard Lemon Cream over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette. This makes a refreshing and healthy lunch or dinner. You could also flake the cod and use it as a filling for tacos or wraps, adding a dollop of the mustard lemon cream sauce for extra flavor.

I’m confident that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a dish that you’ll turn to time and time again, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a show-stopping dish to impress your friends and family.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this Baked Cod with Mustard Lemon Cream. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you think? Share your photos and comments with me – I’m eager to see your culinary creations and hear your feedback. Let’s build a community of food lovers who appreciate the simple joys of delicious, homemade meals. Happy cooking!

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