Here’s a list of all ingredients for **Lemon Pepper Cod**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help with discoverability:
- **Fresh cod fillets** (or frozen cod, thawed)
- **Lemon pepper seasoning** (store-bought or homemade)
- **Fresh lemons** (for zest and juice)
- **Olive oil** (or avocado oil for a healthier option)
- **Garlic powder** (or fresh minced garlic for extra flavor)
- **Paprika** (optional, for added smokiness)
- **Salt** (to taste, if needed)
- **Black pepper** (freshly ground for enhanced flavor)
- **Fresh parsley** (chopped, for garnish)
- **Butter** (optional, for richness)
- **Lemon slices** (for garnish and added flavor)
This **lemon pepper cod recipe** is perfect for a **healthy dinner**, **quick weeknight meal**, or **low-carb seafood dish**. It’s **gluten-free**, **high in protein**, and packed with **citrus flavor**!
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Steps
# How to Make Lemon Pepper Cod: A Flavorful and Healthy Seafood Dish
If you're looking for a **quick, healthy, and delicious seafood recipe**, lemon pepper cod is the perfect choice. This dish combines the **zesty tang of lemon**, the **bold flavor of black pepper**, and the **tender, flaky texture of cod**. Follow these detailed steps to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
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## **Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Cod**
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 lemons (1 for juice, 1 for slices)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Cod Fillets**
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures a crispy exterior when cooked.
- Place the fillets on a plate or cutting board.
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### **2. Season the Cod**
- Drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil over the fillets, ensuring both sides are lightly coated.
- Sprinkle the **lemon pepper seasoning**, **garlic powder**, **paprika**, and **salt** evenly over both sides of the fillets. For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
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### **3. Preheat the Oven**
- Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. This temperature ensures the cod cooks evenly without drying out.
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### **4. Prepare the Baking Dish**
- Lightly grease a baking dish with the remaining olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the seasoned cod fillets in the dish, leaving space between each piece.
- Slice one lemon into thin rounds and place them on top of the fillets for added flavor and presentation.
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### **5. Bake the Cod**
- Bake the cod in the preheated oven for **12-15 minutes**, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to maintain its tender texture.
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### **6. Add Fresh Lemon Juice**
- While the cod is baking, juice the second lemon.
- Once the cod is done, drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the fillets for a bright, citrusy finish.
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### **7. Garnish and Serve**
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the cod for a pop of color and added freshness.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as **steamed vegetables**, **mashed potatoes**, or **wild rice**.
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## **Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Cod**
- Use **fresh cod fillets** for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. Add more lemon pepper for a bolder flavor or reduce the salt for a lighter dish.
- For a crispy exterior, you can pan-sear the cod for 2-3 minutes on each side before baking.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This **lemon pepper cod recipe** is not only **easy to make** but also **packed with flavor** and **nutritious**. Cod is a great source of **lean protein** and **omega-3 fatty acids**, making it a healthy choice for any meal. The combination of **citrus and spices** creates a dish that’s both **refreshing and satisfying**.
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## **SEO Keywords**
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Enjoy this **zesty and aromatic lemon pepper cod** as a **weeknight dinner** or a **special occasion meal**. It’s a versatile dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!