When it comes to quick, nutritious, and flavorful meals, few dishes can rival the simplicity and elegance of Baked Cod and Asparagus with Garlic Lemon Caper Sauce. This easy-to-prepare recipe highlights the delicate, mild flavor of cod, the tender bite of asparagus, and a zesty, buttery garlic lemon caper sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes and delivers a healthy, satisfying meal without compromising on taste. Baking the fish and asparagus together in foil allows the flavors to meld while keeping the fish moist, flaky, and tender. The result? A perfectly balanced dish that is light yet deeply satisfying.
With its vibrant citrus notes, rich buttery finish, and the slight brininess of capers, this meal offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious meal after a long day or an easy way to impress guests, this recipe is a go-to choice that never disappoints.
The garlic lemon caper sauce brings the dish to life with its bold, savory, and slightly briny notes, elevating the mild cod into something truly special. Each bite is a blend of delicate flakiness, buttery richness, and fresh, zesty brightness.
How to Serve This Dish
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides, such as:
- Steamed rice or quinoa – A great way to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Mashed or roasted potatoes – Adds a hearty, comforting element to the meal.
- A fresh green salad – Light, crisp greens provide a refreshing contrast.
- Crusty bread – Perfect for scooping up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
Pair with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to enhance the bright citrus and buttery notes of the dish.
Effortless Cooking, Elegant Results
Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this dish is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few steps—assembling the ingredients, wrapping in foil, and baking—you’ll have a gourmet-style meal ready in no time.
If you’re searching for a go-to healthy dinner that is delicious, effortless, and packed with fresh, vibrant flavors, this Baked Cod and Asparagus with Garlic Lemon Caper Sauce is the perfect choice. Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (I used pacific cod)
- 1 lb asparagus, ends trimmed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (thyme, oregano)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup capers, drained
- 4 tablespoons butter, sliced
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Foil Packets
- Tear off 4 large pieces of aluminum foil, large enough to completely wrap around each fish fillet when folded.
- In the center of each foil piece, place equal portions of the trimmed asparagus. Season the asparagus with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Season the Cod
- Place each cod fillet on top of the asparagus in the foil. Season each fillet with Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper, and sprinkle minced garlic over both the cod and the asparagus.
- Top each cod fillet with a thin lemon slice.
Step 4: Add Capers and Butter
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of capers over each cod fillet.
- Place 1 tablespoon of butter, sliced thinly, on top of each fillet to add a rich, buttery flavor.
Step 5: Wrap and Bake
- Fold the foil ends over the top of each cod fillet to enclose it, but leave a little space inside the packet to allow the fish to steam as it bakes. Do not wrap the foil too tightly.
- Place the foil-wrapped fish packets on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flaky. Depending on the thickness of the fillets and your oven, the fish might be done in 15 minutes. The cod is ready when it easily flakes with a fork.
Step 6: Serve
- Once the cod and asparagus are baked to perfection, carefully unwrap each foil packet.
- Serve the cod and asparagus directly from the foil packets for a rustic presentation, or transfer to a plate.
- Drizzle the cooking juices from the foil over the cod and asparagus for added flavor, and enjoy this light and flavorful dish!
Cooking Notes:
- Asparagus: Be sure to trim the tough ends of the asparagus to ensure even cooking.
- Cod: Pacific cod works well, but you can also substitute it with other white fish like haddock or halibut.
- Baking Time: The baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your cod fillets, so be sure to check for doneness at around the 15-minute mark.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Rice or Potatoes: Serve the cod and asparagus with a side of rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious lemon caper butter sauce.
- With Salad: A simple green salad or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad pairs beautifully with this light dish.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the foil packets in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. This is great for meal prepping or entertaining.
- Variations: Add cherry tomatoes or baby potatoes to the foil packets for added flavor and texture.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 20 minutes
Total Time:
- 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
Baked Cod and Asparagus with Garlic Lemon Caper Sauce is an easy, elegant dish that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The foil packets keep the fish moist and tender while infusing it with the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and capers. Paired with asparagus and a rich butter sauce, this dish offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures in every bite. Enjoy this wholesome meal that comes together in just 30 minutes!