This baked honey marinade cod is a real winner! In just five minutes, you can whip up a tasty dish that’s sweet, flaky, and ready to impress your family.
The honey marinade is so good, I sometimes wish I could bathe in it! 😄 It’s easy to make and pairs perfectly with rice or veggies—dinner is sorted in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Cod is a great choice for its mild flavor and flaky texture. If you can’t find cod, halibut, haddock, or even tilapia are good alternatives. Just be mindful of cooking times, as thinner fish may take less time to bake.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps the marinade caramelize. If you’re looking for a sugar alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well, though they may slightly alter the taste.
Mustards: The mix of Dijon and whole grain mustard gives a nice tang. If you only have one type, feel free to use extra Dijon or even yellow mustard. Just remember, the flavor will shift a bit!
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, coconut aminos is a fantastic substitute that gives a similar umami flavor without the wheat. It’s less salty, so adjust accordingly!
How Do I Make Sure My Cod Stays Moist?
To keep your cod juicy and tender, avoid overcooking. Check the fish at the 10-minute mark. It’s done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Using parchment paper helps lock in moisture, so I highly recommend it!
- Always preheat your oven to get the right cooking environment for even baking.
- Let the cod rest for a minute after baking; this helps it stay moist.
By paying attention to these steps, you’ll get delicious, perfectly baked cod every time!
Amazing 5 Minute Baked Honey Marinade Cod
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Pinch of salt
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Asparagus or your favorite veggie, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 15-17 minutes. It’s a super quick meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the cod cooks evenly and the marinade caramelizes nicely.
2. Make the Honey Marinade:
In a small bowl, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well blended and smooth.
3. Prepare the Cod:
Next, take your cod fillets and place them in a baking dish that’s lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. This helps prevent sticking and makes for an easy cleanup!
4. Apply the Marinade:
Spoon the honey marinade evenly over the cod fillets. Make sure they are well coated so every bite is full of flavor!
5. Bake the Cod:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10–12 minutes. You will know it’s done when the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The marinade should look bubbly and slightly caramelized.
6. Optional Veggies:
While the cod is baking, you can take this time to roast or steam some asparagus or any other vegetable you enjoy as a side dish.
7. Let it Rest:
When the cod is ready, carefully remove it from the oven. Give it a minute to rest—this helps keep it juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious baked honey marinade cod with the roasted veggies on the side. Don’t forget to add lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze right before you dig in!
Enjoy this quick, tasty meal that harmoniously combines sweet, savory, and tangy flavors—all while being simple and impressive!
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best method is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw it quickly by placing the wrapped fish in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes.
Can I Substitute Other Fish?
Absolutely! While cod is a great choice, you can also use halibut, haddock, or tilapia. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets, so start checking for doneness a bit earlier.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave for a minute, or gently warm it in a pan over low heat to maintain its moisture. Adding a splash of lemon juice can help freshen it up!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the honey marinade a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a little stir before using it, as ingredients like mustard and honey may settle or separate.
