Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce: A Light Yet Luxurious Seafood Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a dish that feels both comforting and refined. The mild, flaky cod absorbs the richness of coconut milk while the lemon adds brightness that keeps the sauce fresh and balanced. It is the kind of recipe that looks impressive on the plate yet comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights as well as relaxed weekend dinners.

What I particularly enjoy about this recipe is how well the flavors complement one another. The coconut milk creates a silky, dairy-free creaminess, while lemon cuts through with just enough acidity. When I first tested this dish, I was surprised by how light it felt despite the richness of the sauce. Baking the cod gently in the oven ensures it stays tender and moist, eliminating the risk of overcooking that often comes with pan-frying. This recipe is ideal if you want a healthy, elegant meal that does not require complicated techniques.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cod fillets
Cod is a lean, mild white fish that bakes beautifully and absorbs flavors well without becoming overpowering.

Coconut milk
Full-fat coconut milk provides a creamy, smooth base for the sauce while keeping the dish dairy-free.

Fresh lemon juice
Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the coconut milk.

Lemon zest
Zest enhances the citrus aroma and adds depth without extra acidity.

Garlic
Garlic infuses the sauce with savory warmth and complements both fish and coconut.

Olive oil
Olive oil helps sauté aromatics and adds subtle richness to the dish.

Salt
Salt enhances the natural flavors of the cod and the sauce.

Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and depth.

Paprika
Paprika provides mild warmth and a touch of color.

Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and a clean herbal finish.

Directions

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the cod fillets in a single layer. Season both sides of the fish with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the coconut milk and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the flavors to combine for a few minutes.

Pour the coconut lemon sauce evenly over the cod fillets. Transfer the baking dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, while baking requires about 20 minutes. Total time is roughly 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a low oven or on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating and the fish from drying out.

Variations and Customizations

This dish is easy to adapt based on preference and availability. For added depth, a small amount of grated ginger can be added to the sauce, introducing a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with coconut. I have also tested this recipe with lime instead of lemon, which gives the dish a slightly more tropical profile.

If you prefer a richer sauce, stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water before baking to thicken it slightly. Vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or thinly sliced bell peppers can be added to the baking dish for a complete one-pan meal.

For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper. Each variation maintains the integrity of the dish while allowing you to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Cod is a lean source of protein, while coconut milk provides healthy fats. The dish is suitable for low-carbohydrate and pescatarian diets when paired with appropriate sides.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Perfectly Cooked Cod
Bake just until the fish flakes easily to avoid dryness.

Balanced Citrus
Adjust lemon juice to taste for ideal acidity.

Creamy Sauce Texture
Use full-fat coconut milk for best results.

Flavor Infusion
Allow the sauce to simmer briefly before baking.

Fresh Finish
Add herbs just before serving for maximum freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

Can I substitute another fish?

Yes, haddock or halibut work well.

Will light coconut milk work?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It is best cooked fresh, but the sauce can be prepared in advance.

What side dishes pair well?

Rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables complement this dish.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, it is mild unless chili is added.

Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, vegetables can bake alongside the cod.

How do I know when cod is done?

It should be opaque and flake easily.

Can I cook this in foil packets?

Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

It can be stored briefly but is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Baked Cod in Coconut Lemon Cream Sauce is a simple yet elegant recipe that highlights fresh flavors and gentle cooking. With its creamy sauce, bright citrus notes, and tender fish, it is a dependable option for a healthy, satisfying seafood dinner that feels special without being complicated.

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