Ling Cod Recipe

I swear, there’s something magical about whipping up a dish that tastes like you’ve just discovered oceanic bliss and decided to share it. This zesty baked ling cod recipe is a total catch—each bite feels like a mini escape to a sun-soaked coastal haven, and honestly, I’m here for it.

I adore crafting dishes that showcase the subtle tastes of exquisite seafood. Ling cod, with its resilient constitution and ample flavor, stands up confidently to a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, served as a marinade.

I like to think that the thyme and paprika dots on the fish provide a nice contrast to its flavor and make a beautiful, simple, lean protein dish.

Ingredients

• Ling Cod Fillets: High in protein; low in fat; rich in omega-3s.
• Olive Oil: Healthy fats; anti-inflammatory; enhances flavors.
• Lemon Juice: Bright, tangy; rich in vitamin C; aids digestion.
• Garlic: Aromatic; anti-bacterial; boosts immunity.
• Thyme: Earthy herb; antioxidant; supports respiratory health.
• Paprika: Mild spice; boosts circulation; rich in vitamin A.
• Fresh Parsley: Freshness; vitamin K source; aids digestion.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 ling cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make this

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, black pepper, thyme, and paprika in a small bowl to create a marinade.

3. Dry the ling cod fillets with paper towels and set them on the baking sheet that you prepared.

4. Evenly coat the fillets with the marinade, making sure they are thoroughly coated on all sides.

5. Allow the flavors to infuse for about 15 minutes by marinating the fillets at room temperature.

6. After marinating, put the baking sheet containing the ling cod fillets into the oven, which should be preheated.

7. Cook the fillets in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and breaks apart easily when you poke it with a fork.

8. Take the baking sheet out of the oven, and allow the fillets to sit for several minutes.

9. Spoon the fresh chopped parsley over the baked ling cod fillets for a fresh garnish.

10. Serve right away with wedges of lemon on the side for a delightful extra burst of citrus. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Small bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Fork
7. Paper towels
8. Knife
9. Cutting board
10. Spoon

FAQ

• Q: Can I use another type of fish instead of ling cod?A: Yes, it is permissible to trade out ling cod for another solid white fish. Firm white fish such as halibut, haddock, or cod also work well in this position.
• Q: What is the best way to cook ling cod?A: This recipe suggests that the fillets be pan-seared…
• Q: How long should I marinate the fish?A: Marinating the ling cod for a minimum of 15 minutes allows the flavors to seep in. However, it’s recommended not to exceed a 30-minute marination period.
• Q: Can I add more spices to the marinade?Of course! You can personalize the marinade however you like. Try stirring in cumin or cayenne pepper for some heat, or mix in fresh herbs for even more flavor.
• Q: Is it necessary to use fresh parsley?Fresh parsley has a bright flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can use dried parsley. Just use half the amount of dried parsley in these recipes.
• Q: How do I know when the ling cod is cooked through?A: The fish is finished cooking when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance, usually taking 3-4 minutes per side.
• Q: What is the best way to serve this dish?A: Accompany the ling cod with wedges of lemon for squeezing over the fish. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Ling Cod Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Olive oil: Swap in avocado oil or melted butter for a flavor boost that packs more richness.
Juice from a lemon: Substitute with juice from a lime or with white wine vinegar.
Garlic: Substitute with 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder for each clove.
Dehydrated thyme: Employ 1 teaspoon of dehydrated oregano or dehydrated basil.
Paprika: Swap in smoked paprika for a twist that’s smoky.

Pro Tips

1. Enhance the Marinade Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a subtle sweetness that complements the savory and tangy elements.

2. Use a Ziploc Bag for Marinating Place the fillets and marinade in a large resealable plastic bag. This ensures even coating and allows you to occasionally massage the bag for better flavor infusion.

3. Optimal Baking Check the fillets at the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking. If the fish flakes easily with a fork, it’s ready. Ling cod can quickly become dry if overbaked.

4. Resting Time After removing the fillets from the oven, let them rest under tented foil for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.

5. Add Zest for Extra Flavor Before serving, sprinkle some lemon zest over the fillets along with the parsley for an added layer of citrusy aroma and flavor.