Lemon-Herb Baked Cod with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables

If you're looking for a light, flavorful, and nourishing dinner that comes together with ease, this lemon-herb baked cod is a perfect choice. It's dairy-free, packed with protein, and beautifully balanced with wholesome sides.

Tender cod fillets are infused with fresh lemon and garlic, then baked to perfection while colorful seasonal vegetables roast until caramelized. Served with fluffy quinoa, this dish feels both comforting and refreshing.

Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a healthy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets (about 5 oz each)
• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced into half-moons
• 1 small red onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place broccoli, bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion on the baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 20 minutes.
3. Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
4. Pat cod fillets dry and place them on a separate baking dish. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, salt, pepper, and top with lemon slices.
5. Bake cod for 12–15 minutes until opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Fluff quinoa with a fork, stir in chopped parsley, and serve cod alongside quinoa and roasted vegetables.

Tips & Substitutions

• Fish swap: If cod isn’t available, try haddock, tilapia, or halibut for a similar result.
• Vegetable variety: Use seasonal veggies like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts to keep the dish exciting.
• Flavor boost: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or smoked paprika to the cod for a gentle kick.

Nutrition

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 36g

Related Recipe

See the original recipe: "Lemon-Herb Baked Cod with Quinoa and Roasted Vegetables"

This dish is a wonderful way to enjoy a balanced, wholesome meal that’s equally satisfying and nourishing. Give it a try this week, and don’t forget to share your version—it might just become a new household favorite!