This Easy Greek Style Baked Cod recipe brings the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with minimal effort. Tender cod fillets are baked with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and a sprinkle of herbs, creating a light yet satisfying dish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fuss-free meal that still feels special.
With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple and fresh. The bright, zesty taste pairs beautifully with the mild fish. Let’s dive into why this dish is a favorite and how you can whip it up at home.
Why People Love This Easy Greek Style Baked Cod Recipe
There’s something about Greek flavors that feels both comforting and vibrant. The combo of lemon, garlic, and oregano hits all the right notes without overpowering the cod. People love how it transforms a basic fish into something deliciously bold.
It’s also a breeze to make, which is a big win for busy folks. You can have it prepped and in the oven in under 10 minutes. That ease, paired with the fresh taste, keeps it a go-to for many.
The health factor is another perk. It’s light, packed with protein, and uses heart-healthy olive oil. Home cooks appreciate a meal that’s good for you and still tastes amazing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, everyday items you might already have. Nothing fancy—just fresh, quality basics. Here’s what to gather.
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each), fresh or thawed
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon slices for garnish
Fresh cod works best, but frozen is fine—just thaw it fully first. The herbs and lemon are the stars, so don’t skimp on those.
Kitchen Tools for the Job
You won’t need much to pull this off. Basic kitchen gear does the trick. Here’s the short list.
- Baking dish (9×13-inch or similar)
- Small bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven mitts
A spoon or whisk helps mix the marinade, but your hands work too. It’s all about keeping it simple and stress-free.
How to Prepare Easy Greek Style Baked Cod
This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, start to finish. The steps are straightforward, and the oven does most of the work. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of olive oil. This prevents the fish from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything blends into a fragrant marinade. It’ll smell like a Greek island already.
Step 3: Prep the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the baking dish in a single layer. Drying them helps the marinade stick better.
Step 4: Coat the Fish
Pour the marinade evenly over the cod fillets. Use a spoon or your hands to make sure each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for 5 minutes if you have time.
Step 5: Add Lemon Slices
Place a few thin lemon slices on top of each fillet. This adds extra flavor and looks pretty too. It’s a small touch that makes a difference.
Step 6: Bake the Cod
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque. Check at 15 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Take it out, sprinkle with fresh parsley if using, and serve hot. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Dig in while it’s warm.
Tips for the Best Greek Style Baked Cod
A few easy tricks can take this dish up a notch. Here’s what works well.
- Use fresh lemon juice—it’s brighter and tastier than bottled.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Let the fish marinate for 15-20 minutes if you’ve got extra time.
- Swap cod for haddock or tilapia if that’s what you have.
These tweaks keep it flexible and fun. Play with it to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This cod shines with simple, fresh sides. Here’s how to round out the meal.
- Pair with a Greek salad—tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, and olives.
- Serve over rice or quinoa to soak up the juices.
- Add roasted potatoes or steamed veggies like zucchini.
- Offer crusty bread to mop up the flavorful oil.
It’s light enough for summer but cozy enough for cooler days. You can’t go wrong with these combos.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the breakdown for one serving, based on 4 servings total. It’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Sodium | 380mg |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 25g |
This is an estimate and can vary slightly. It’s low-carb and protein-rich, making it a smart choice.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers are rare with this dish, but they’re easy to handle if you have them. Here’s the plan.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Freezing isn’t ideal—it can make the texture mushy.
It’s best fresh, but a quick reheat still tastes great. Add a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up again.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Easy Greek Style Baked Cod is all about big flavor with little effort. The Mediterranean-inspired marinade turns mild cod into something special without hours of work. It’s healthy, quick, and versatile—everything a home cook wants.
The tender fish and zesty topping make every bite a treat. It’s a recipe that feels fancy but fits into real life. That’s why it’s a keeper for so many kitchens.
Summary
This Easy Greek Style Baked Cod recipe delivers a fresh, flavorful meal in just 30 minutes. With a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon, and herbs, it’s a light yet satisfying dish. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
It’s a no-fuss way to bring Greek flair to your table. Make it once, and it’ll likely become a regular in your dinner rotation.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
Dried herbs work fine—use what’s listed, and it’ll still taste great.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Prep the marinade and fish a few hours ahead, then bake when ready.
How do I know when the cod is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and look white, not translucent.
Can I grill this instead of baking?
Yes, use a grill pan or foil packet and cook for 10-12 minutes.
Easy Greek Style Baked Cod
Equipment
- Baking dish (9×13-inch or similar)
- Small bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven Mitts
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets about 6 ounces each, fresh or thawed
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of olive oil. This prevents the fish from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything blends into a fragrant marinade. It’ll smell like a Greek island already.
Step 3: Prep the Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the baking dish in a single layer. Drying them helps the marinade stick better.
Step 4: Coat the Fish
- Pour the marinade evenly over the cod fillets. Use a spoon or your hands to make sure each piece is well-coated. Let it sit for 5 minutes if you have time.
Step 5: Add Lemon Slices
- Place a few thin lemon slices on top of each fillet. This adds extra flavor and looks pretty too. It’s a small touch that makes a difference.
Step 6: Bake the Cod
- Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque. Check at 15 minutes to avoid overcooking.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Take it out, sprinkle with fresh parsley if using, and serve hot. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Dig in while it’s warm.
