Roasted Cod with Asparagus
Prep
15 mins
Cook
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Delicate flaky cod fillets paired with tender roasted asparagus, finished with a zesty lemon-herb butter that brings brightness and sophistication to this elegant weeknight dinner.
Ella x
Ingredients
- 4cod fillets(6 oz each, patted dry)
- 1 poundfresh asparagus(woody ends trimmed)
- 3 tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoonsunsalted butter(softened)
- 1fresh lemon(zested and juiced)
- 2garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tablespoonfresh thyme(finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoonfresh parsley(finely chopped)
- ½ teaspoonsea salt
- ¼ teaspoonblack pepper
- ⅛ teaspoonred pepper flakes
Detail level
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Tip: Pat the cod completely dry before cooking to ensure a better texture and prevent steaming.
- 2
Toss the trimmed asparagus with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half the salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Spread in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Tip: Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture; thicker spears work better for roasting.
- 3
Make the herb butter by whisking together softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, fresh thyme, parsley, and remaining black pepper in a small bowl until combined.
Tip: Prepare the herb butter while the oven preheats to save time during cooking.
- 4
Arrange the cod fillets on the baking sheet around the asparagus, leaving some space between each piece. Brush the cod with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with remaining salt.
Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; space helps everything roast evenly rather than steam.
- 5
Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the cod is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork.
Tip: Check the thickest part of the cod; it should have just lost its translucency.
- 6
Remove from the oven and immediately top each cod fillet with a generous dollop of the herb butter, allowing it to melt over the fish and asparagus.
Tip: The residual heat will melt the butter beautifully and infuse the dish with herbal flavors.
- 7
Drizzle the lemon juice over everything and sprinkle with red pepper flakes for a subtle heat contrast. Serve immediately while still warm.
Tip: Fresh lemon juice added at the end brightens all the flavors without cooking off.
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