Baked cod is a great way to prepare a light yet filling meal without spending time over a hot pan. Delicate, juicy fish baked with butter and dill, served with pea purée and roasted potatoes – simple and delicious. If you enjoy classic fish & chips but are looking for a healthier version, this recipe is for you!
I love this baked version because it's less time-consuming than frying, yet just as delicious. Cod has such a delicate flavour that a little salt, pepper, and dill are all you need to highlight it. Add some buttery pea purée and crispy potatoes, and it’s the perfect combination.
How to prepare the perfect baked fish?
I used to think baking a juicy, delicate fish in the oven was nearly impossible. Now I know it’s not only possible but also surprisingly simple! The key lies in the baking time – if we adjust it to the thickness of the fillets, the fish will stay tender and moist.
How to do it? I bake thick fillets for about 18–24 minutes, while thinner ones need about 15 minutes. Always check the fish towards the end of the baking time – if it easily flakes with a fork, it’s ready. If necessary, just add an extra few minutes. The fillets in the picture were baked for 20 minutes and turned out perfect! Also, I recommend baking the fish covered; this helps keep the moisture in and prevents it from drying out.
How to know if your cod is ready?
Gently separate the flesh with a fork or knife – if it’s white, juicy, and flakes easily, it’s done. If it still looks raw (translucent, glossy), it needs a little more time in the oven.
Can you use frozen cod?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it first and pat it dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture in the oven.
Do you often prepare healthy, light dishes? If you need some inspiration, here are more recipes to try out:
- Spring rolls with chicken and vegetables
- Vegan broad bean dip | Easy recipe
- Red rice salad with roasted carrot | vegan recipe
- Easy green pea soup | healthy and gluten-free
Baked cod | How to bake the perfect fish?
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
Cod
- 4 cod fillets (skinless)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp chopped dill
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Baked potatoes
- 600 g potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 tsp thyme
- salt to taste
Green pea purée
- 450 g green peas (frozen)
- 50 ml milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into smaller pieces. Transfer them to a baking sheet, add olive oil, thyme, and salt. Toss everything together. Roast for about 30–35 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Add the peas to salted boiling water and cook for about 6–8 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to preserve their vibrant colour. Use a food processor or blender to puree the peas with butter, milk, and salt until smooth.
- Wash and pat dry the cod fillets. Place them in a baking dish, season with salt, pepper, and chopped dill on both sides. Top with small pieces of butter. Bake covered for 15–24 minutes at 180°C, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Check the fish a few minutes before the end – if it’s ready, you can remove it, otherwise, bake for a little longer. Enjoy your meal!
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