Herb Crusted Baked Cod with Lemon Orzo
Golden, herb-crusted cod fillets paired with a zesty lemon orzo that's bright and bursting with flavor.
Total: 35 minPrep: 15 minCook: 20 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 4 cod fillets, 6 oz each
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
- 1 lemon, sliced into wedges
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 400°F.
- 2 In a saucepan, cook orzo in chicken broth until tender. Drain if necessary. Stir in olive oil, lemon juice, Parmesan, and garlic.
- 3 Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
- 4 Combine breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, thyme, and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a bowl. Press onto both sides of each fillet.
- 5 Place cod on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until fish flakes easily.
- 6 Serve cod over lemon orzo with a lemon wedge on the side.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
Variations
- Substitute cod with tilapia or halibut for a different flavor profile.
- Add sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus alongside the orzo.
Substitutions
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian adaptation.
Pairings
- A crisp Sauvignon Blanc
- Lightly dressed arugula salad
Nutrition
Calories:
420 kcal
Fat:
18g fat
Carbs:
25g carbohydrates
Protein:
35g protein
Fiber:
2g fiber
Sugar:
3g sugar
Sodium:
400mg sodium
Tips
- For extra lemony flavor, add zest of one lemon to the orzo.
- If you can't find fresh herbs, use 1 tablespoon of dried herbs in place of the fresh.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad and crusty bread.
- Pair with a chilled white wine for a delightful meal.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead?
Yes, bake the cod and prepare the orzo separately. Combine just before serving.