Baked Cod with Lemon Butter Sauce: A Quick and Tasty Meal

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a light, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Packed with lean protein and infused with the bright tang of lemon, buttery richness, and aromatic herbs, this recipe is as healthy as it is delicious. At only a few Weight Watchers points per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (4-6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Season the Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
2. Season both sides of the fillets with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Make the Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and parsley.

Assemble the Dish

1. Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, leaving space between each piece.
2. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce evenly over the fillets.
3. Add a lemon slice on top of each fillet for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Bake the Cod

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the fillets.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the baked cod from the oven and garnish with additional parsley if desired.
2. Serve warm with your favorite Weight Watchers-friendly side dishes.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~1g
• Fat: ~5g
• WW Points: ~2 (may vary based on specific ingredients)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.
2. Healthy and Light: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids.
3. Versatile Flavor: The zesty lemon and rich butter complement the mild, flaky cod beautifully.
4. Weight Watchers Approved: At only a couple of points per serving, this dish fits seamlessly into your meal plan.

Tips for Success

• Choose Fresh Cod: Look for fillets that are firm, moist, and have a mild smell. Frozen cod works well too—just thaw it completely before using.
• Customize the Herbs: Swap parsley for dill, thyme, or rosemary to change up the flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook: Check for doneness around the 12-minute mark to avoid dry fish. The cod should flake easily with a fork.
• Add Veggies: For a one-pan meal, add sliced zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Weight Watchers-Friendly Sides: Pair with cauliflower rice, steamed green beans, or a simple salad for a low-point meal.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or with roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Classic Pairing: Enjoy with brown rice or quinoa for a heartier option while still keeping the points low.

This Lemon Butter Baked Cod is a crowd-pleaser that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for the family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is a surefire hit. With its tender, flaky texture and bright citrus notes, it’s a refreshing and satisfying way to stay on track with your healthy eating goals.