If you’re in the mood for a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal, look no further than baked cod with a herby crust. This dish combines flaky cod with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, seasoned with fresh herbs and garlic. Paired with tender new potatoes and peas, this is a meal that’s quick to prepare, light on the calories, and rich in taste. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked cod with a herby crust offers a balance of freshness and texture. The cod is light and flaky, while the herbed breadcrumb crust provides a delightful crunch. This recipe is not only flavorful but also a healthier alternative to fried fish, as it uses a light baking method without sacrificing taste. With minimal ingredients and just a few simple steps, it’s easy to make but feels like an indulgent meal. Plus, it’s dairy-free, egg-free, and pregnancy-friendly, making it a great choice for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

• 2 x 180g/6oz pieces of cod loin

• 2 tbsp fresh white breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (such as a mixture of chervil, chives, parsley, coriander) – optional

• 1 clove garlic, finely crushed

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 140g/5oz new potatoes (any large ones cut in half)

• 160g/6oz fresh or frozen peas

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 200C/180C Fan/Gas 6.

2. Prepare the herby crust: In a bowl, mix together the herbs (if using), crushed garlic, and olive oil. Stir in the breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper.

3. Coat the cod: Place the cod pieces on a baking sheet and spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each piece.

4. Bake the cod: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through, the flesh becomes opaque, and it flakes easily when tested with a fork.

5. Cook the potatoes and peas: While the cod is baking, boil the potatoes in a large pan of water for 12-15 minutes, until tender. In a separate pan, boil the peas for a few minutes until they’re just cooked.

6. Serve: Once the cod is done, take it out of the oven and serve it with the boiled potatoes and peas. Enjoy your healthy, flavorful meal!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: Less than 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 to 30 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have the specific herbs listed, you can easily swap them for others like thyme, dill, or basil.

• Add Cheese: If you’re not following a dairy-free diet, adding a sprinkle of grated parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture can provide extra flavor and richness.

• Vegetable Sides: If you prefer a different vegetable side, consider roasted carrots or steamed broccoli to complement the cod and potatoes.

• Breadcrumb Swap: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) for the crust.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the cod and side vegetables in a preheated oven at 180C/350F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, though the crust may lose some of its crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before you bake it to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I make the herby crust without breadcrumbs?

If you’re avoiding breadcrumbs, you can use ground almonds or crushed nuts as an alternative to create a similar texture.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the herby crust and coat the cod up to a few hours before baking. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

4. How do I know when the cod is done?

The cod is done when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork. You can also check with a food thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145F (63C).

5. Can I add more herbs to the crust?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like tarragon, basil, or dill to suit your taste.

6. Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute cod with other white fish like haddock, pollock, or tilapia. Just be mindful of cooking times, as they may vary slightly.

7. Can I bake the cod at a lower temperature?

You can bake it at a lower temperature, but it might take a bit longer to cook. I recommend sticking with the original temperature for the best results.

8. Can I use frozen peas?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package to avoid overcooking them.

9. What can I serve with this dish instead of potatoes?

You could serve the cod with rice, quinoa, or a side salad for a lighter option.

10. Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this recipe is suitable for a low-carb diet if you opt for a low-carb alternative to the potatoes, like cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles.

Conclusion

Baked cod with a herby crust is a simple yet impressive dish that brings together healthy ingredients and incredible flavors. The crispy breadcrumb topping, tender cod, and side vegetables make for a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a light dinner. With just a few fresh ingredients, this recipe proves that eating healthy can be both easy and delicious!