Description
This Baked Cod with Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli is a nutritious, protein-packed meal that’s light, flavorful, and easy to prepare. The flaky cod fillets are baked with garlic, lemon, and thyme, paired with fluffy lemon herb quinoa and steamed broccoli for a balanced and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Baked Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
For the Lemon Herb Quinoa:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Steamed Broccoli:
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Baking the Cod:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the seasoning mixture over them, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cod becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking the Quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add the rinsed quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, until all liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
Steaming the Broccoli:
- Place broccoli florets in a steamer basket over boiling water.
- Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, until tender but still vibrant in color.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Notes
- You can substitute cod with halibut or tilapia for variety.
- For extra flavor, try adding paprika, chili flakes, or a drizzle of honey to the cod marinade.
- Swap quinoa with brown rice or couscous for a different grain option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 18
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Sugar: ~2g
- Sodium: ~150mg
- Fat: ~10g
- Saturated Fat: ~2g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Protein: ~35g
- Cholesterol: ~70mg
Keywords: Baked cod, healthy fish recipes, quinoa dinner ideas, gluten-free seafood, high-protein meals, lemon herb quinoa, steamed broccoli dish