Zesty Crunch Garlic Lemon Cod Recipe
	
	
		Zesty Crunch Garlic Lemon Cod features tender cod fillets marinated in a bright garlic lemon mixture, topped with a crispy quinoa and panko breadcrumb crust, baked to golden perfection. This flavorful and healthy seafood dish is quick to prepare and makes a perfect weeknight dinner.
	 
	
		
							- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
 
	
		
		
			For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Crispy Quinoa Crust:
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- Salt to taste
 
	 
	
		
		
			
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Cod Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow the fillets to marinate for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Make the Crispy Quinoa Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, melted butter or olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly until the quinoa is evenly coated and the mixture is uniform.
- Coat the Cod: Place the marinated cod fillets onto the prepared baking dish. Press the quinoa mixture evenly on top of each fillet to form a firm crust layer.
- Bake the Cod: Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the quinoa crust turns golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let the cod cool for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges for an extra zesty touch.
 
	 
	
		Notes
		
			
- For best results, use fresh cod fillets that are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Cook quinoa ahead of time or use leftover quinoa to save preparation time.
- You can substitute butter with olive oil to keep the dish dairy-free.
- Adjust seasoning and lemon juice according to your taste preference.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad.
 
	 
	
		Keywords: cod recipe, baked cod, quinoa crust, garlic lemon fish, healthy seafood dish, crispy fish crust