This recipe brings together the classic flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs with the delicate flaky texture of cod fillets. The spinach adds a vibrant green color and wilts slightly in the oven, creating a flavorful sauce that complements the fish perfectly. The feta cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor that balances the acidity of the lemon and the earthiness of the spinach. This dish is quick and easy to make, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
The inspiration for this recipe came to me on a trip to the Mediterranean coast. I was visiting a small fishing village and had the opportunity to taste some of the freshest seafood I've ever had. One of the dishes I tried was a simple baked cod with spinach and feta. The flavors were so perfectly balanced that I knew I had to recreate it at home. I've been making this recipe for years now, and it's always a hit with my friends and family. It's a delicious and healthy way to enjoy cod, and it's easy enough for even novice cooks to make.
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
1 pound cod fillets
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 ounces baby spinach
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels.
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, onion, garlic, spinach, parsley, feta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet and top with the spinach mixture.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through.
Serve immediately.
Why It Works
The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs creates a bright and flavorful marinade that infuses the cod with flavor.
The spinach wilts slightly in the oven, creating a flavorful sauce that complements the fish perfectly.
The feta cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor that balances the acidity of the lemon and the earthiness of the spinach.
Baking the cod at a high temperature ensures that it cooks quickly and evenly, resulting in a flaky and moist texture.