Lemon-Butter Baked Cod with Asparagus

This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The cod is flaky and moist, while the asparagus is tender-crisp and flavorful. The lemon-butter sauce adds a bright and tangy flavor that ties everything together.

The origins of this dish can be traced back to the coastal regions of Europe, where fish and vegetables were often cooked together in a simple pot. Over time, the dish evolved and was eventually introduced to the Americas by European settlers. Today, lemon-butter baked cod with asparagus is a classic dish that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound cod fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• 1/4 cup lactose-free butter, melted
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Place the cod fillets in a baking dish.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, melted butter, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through.
5. While the cod is baking, steam or roast the asparagus until tender-crisp.
6. Serve the cod fillets with the asparagus and lemon zest.
7. Garnish with additional parsley, if desired.

Why It Works

• The combination of cod and asparagus is a classic for a reason. The delicate flavor of the cod pairs perfectly with the slightly bitter asparagus.
• The lemon-butter sauce adds a bright and tangy flavor that helps to balance the richness of the cod and asparagus.
• Baking the cod in the oven helps to keep it moist and flaky.
• Steaming or roasting the asparagus helps to preserve its鮮味and texture.