Vegetable Sides:
Roasted Vegetables: Prepare a mix of seasonal vegetables like carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes and beets. Chop them into chunks, season with olive oil, salt, pepper and herbs, then roast them in the oven alongside the cod.
Vegetable Puree: Creamy mashed potatoes, cauliflower or parsnips can be a great complement to cod. Add a touch of butter and cream for a creamy texture.
Starchy Sides:
Rice Pilaf: Make a fragrant rice pilaf by sautéing basmati rice with onion and spices before cooking in stock. Add flaked almonds and raisins for a touch of flavour and texture.
Quinoa: Quinoa is a healthy, high-protein alternative. Cook it with broth and herbs for a tasty and nutritious side dish.
Sauces and condiments:
Lemon butter sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, add lemon juice, lemon zest, and a little chopped parsley. This simple but delicious sauce pairs perfectly with cod.
Homemade pesto: Make a fresh pesto with basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Serve it as a side dish or drizzle it over cod before serving.
Fresh salads:
Crisp green salad: A green salad with arugula, spinach, romaine lettuce, and some fresh herbs, tossed with a light lemon vinaigrette, can add a fresh touch to your dish.
Quinoa and vegetable salad: Mix cooked quinoa with diced cucumber, tomato, red onion, and fresh herbs. Dress with olive oil and lemon juice for a complete and tasty salad.
These suggestions for sides and presentations will diversify your menu and make your meal even more complete and satisfying.
1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. To do this, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave.
2. What is the best way to tell if cod is done?
Cod is done when its flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You can also use a cooking thermometer: cod should reach an internal temperature of 60°C.
3. Can I prepare cod in the oven in advance?
It is best to cook cod just before serving to keep it tender and juicy. However, you can prepare the ingredients and arrange them in the dish in advance, then put them in the oven just before the meal.
4. How to prevent cod from becoming dry?
To prevent cod from becoming dry, be careful not to cook it for too long. You can also drizzle the fish with olive oil or melted butter before cooking and cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
5. What other types of fish can be used in this recipe?
You can use other firm white fish such as hake, pollock, sole or even sea bass. Each fish will bring a slightly different flavor but will lend itself well to baking.
6. Can you add spices for more flavor?
Absolutely. You can add spices such as paprika, cumin, ground coriander or even curry powder to give your cod more flavor. Be sure to balance the spices with the other ingredients so as not to overpower the delicate flavor of the fish.
These answers to frequently asked questions should help you approach this recipe with confidence and customize it to your tastes and needs.
Conclusion
Baked cod fillet is a simple, tasty and healthy recipe that is perfect for any occasion, whether it is a family dinner, a meal with friends or even a light lunch. With fresh, quality ingredients, careful preparation and a few tips for successful cooking, you can create a delicious dish that highlights the delicate flavor of the cod.
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