Baked Cod With Lemon-Parsley Panko Recipe

In the realm of quick, healthy, and utterly delicious weeknight meals, this Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko recipe truly shines. As someone always on the lookout for dishes that are both easy to prepare and satisfying for the whole family, I was immediately drawn to the simplicity and vibrant flavors promised by this recipe. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, this dish transforms humble cod fillets into a restaurant-worthy meal. The crispy, golden panko crust infused with bright lemon zest, fragrant parsley, and savory garlic is a textural and flavor masterpiece. Even my kids, who can sometimes be a little picky about fish, devoured it, proclaiming it their new favorite way to eat cod. The flaky, tender cod underneath the crunchy topping is perfectly cooked and infused with a subtle lemon-butter flavor that complements the panko beautifully. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience – a burst of freshness and comforting textures that elevates any weeknight dinner into something special. If you’re searching for a recipe that’s both effortless and impressive, look no further. This Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko is a guaranteed winner that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

The beauty of this Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko lies in its short and simple ingredient list, where each component plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is both flavorful and texturally satisfying. Let’s delve into each ingredient and understand why they are essential for this culinary success:

• 1 pound cod fillets: The star of the show, cod is a fantastic choice for this recipe. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor and flaky texture make it a perfect canvas for the vibrant lemon-parsley panko topping. Cod is also a lean protein, making this dish a healthy and nutritious option. When selecting cod, opt for fillets that are firm, white, and without a strong fishy odor. Fresh cod is always preferable, but frozen fillets work just as well. If using frozen cod, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. Different types of cod are available, including Atlantic cod and Pacific cod. Both are suitable for this recipe, though some prefer the slightly firmer texture of Pacific cod. Look for sustainably sourced cod whenever possible to support responsible fishing practices. You can find this information on labels or by asking your fishmonger. The thickness of the cod fillets will influence the cooking time, so keep that in mind and adjust accordingly. Thicker fillets may require a few extra minutes in the oven to ensure they are cooked through.
• ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs): Panko breadcrumbs are the secret to the incredible crispy texture of this dish. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko is made from crustless white bread that is coarsely ground. This results in larger, lighter, and airier crumbs that crisp up beautifully in the oven. The texture is what truly sets panko apart, providing a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the tender cod. If you need a gluten-free option, gluten-free panko breadcrumbs are readily available in most supermarkets and online. These are typically made from rice flour or other gluten-free grains and provide a similar crispy texture. Ensure you choose gluten-free panko specifically, as regular gluten-free breadcrumbs may not have the same light and airy quality. The panko acts as a vehicle for flavor, absorbing the garlic, parsley, lemon zest, and butter, and creating a flavorful crust that elevates the cod from simple to spectacular.
• 1 large garlic clove, minced: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse, adding a savory depth and aromatic complexity to the panko topping. Freshly minced garlic is always recommended for the best flavor. Mincing the garlic finely ensures that it distributes evenly throughout the panko mixture and infuses every bite with its pungent goodness. If you’re not a huge fan of strong garlic flavor, you can reduce the amount slightly, or for a milder garlic taste, consider using roasted garlic instead. Roasted garlic has a sweeter and mellower flavor profile. Garlic not only adds flavor but also boasts numerous health benefits. It is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a healthy addition to your meal.
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Butter is essential for both flavor and texture in this recipe. Melted butter is used in two stages: first, to create a lemon-butter drizzle for the cod itself, and second, to bind the panko mixture together and promote browning and crispiness in the oven. The butter adds richness and moisture to the cod, preventing it from drying out during baking. In the panko topping, the melted butter helps to coat the breadcrumbs evenly, ensuring they crisp up uniformly and develop a beautiful golden-brown color. You can use salted or unsalted butter, but if using salted butter, be mindful of the amount of kosher salt you add later to avoid over-salting the dish. For a slightly healthier alternative, you could use olive oil instead of butter in the panko mixture, although butter does contribute a richer flavor and superior browning.
• 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, packed and minced: Fresh Italian parsley brings a vibrant herbaceousness and freshness to the dish. Its bright, clean flavor cuts through the richness of the butter and complements the lemon beautifully. Italian parsley, also known as flat-leaf parsley, has a more robust flavor than curly parsley and is preferred for cooking. Make sure to pack the parsley when measuring to ensure you are using the correct amount. Minced parsley disperses its flavor throughout the panko topping and adds a pop of green color, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish. If you don’t have fresh parsley, you could substitute with other fresh herbs like chives, dill, or even a mix of herbs. Dried parsley can be used in a pinch, but fresh parsley provides a much brighter and more vibrant flavor.
• ½ lemon, juiced: Lemon juice is the key to the bright, zesty flavor that defines this recipe. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is crucial for the best taste. Lemon juice adds acidity, which balances the richness of the butter and enhances the natural flavor of the cod. It also helps to tenderize the fish and keep it moist during baking. The lemon juice is used both in the lemon-butter drizzle for the cod and in the panko topping, ensuring that the lemon flavor is present throughout the dish. Always zest the lemon before juicing, as lemon zest is also used in the recipe.
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest: Lemon zest, the grated outer peel of the lemon, is packed with intense lemon flavor and aroma. It adds a concentrated burst of citrus to the panko topping, complementing the lemon juice and enhancing the overall lemon flavor profile. Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon, being careful to only grate the yellow part of the peel and avoid the bitter white pith underneath. Lemon zest is an essential ingredient in this recipe, adding a layer of complexity and brightness that elevates the dish.
• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste: Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper are fundamental seasonings that enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients. Kosher salt is preferred by many cooks for its clean taste and ease of use. Season the cod fillets and the panko mixture generously with salt and pepper to bring out the best flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, as personal preferences for saltiness and pepperiness can vary. Freshly ground black pepper provides a more robust and aromatic pepper flavor compared to pre-ground pepper.

By understanding the role of each ingredient and using high-quality components, you are well on your way to creating a truly delicious and memorable Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko.

Instructions: Step-by-Step to Crispy, Flaky Perfection

This Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for even novice cooks. Each step is simple and quick, ensuring a delicious dinner on the table in no time. Let’s break down the instructions step-by-step, with helpful tips and insights to guarantee success:

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Cod

• Grease a baking dish: Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). While the oven is preheating, grease a baking dish. The size of the dish will depend on the size of your cod fillets, but a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized casserole dish will typically work well for 1 pound of cod. Greasing the dish is crucial to prevent the cod from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking. You can use cooking spray, olive oil, or butter to grease the dish. Make sure to coat the bottom and sides of the dish evenly.
• Arrange your cod in the dish: Once the dish is greased, gently place your cod fillets in the baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming rather than baking. If your fillets are very thick, you might want to space them out a bit more to allow for proper heat circulation. Make sure the cod fillets are relatively dry before placing them in the dish. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the lemon-butter drizzle adhere better and promote browning.

Step 2: Lemon-Butter Drizzle for Flavor Infusion

• In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice and 1 tablespoon melted butter: In a small bowl, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice (from ½ lemon) with 1 tablespoon of the melted butter. Whisk them together until they are well combined and slightly emulsified. This creates a flavorful lemon-butter mixture that will infuse the cod with moisture and bright citrus notes.
• Drizzle lemon butter on fish: Evenly drizzle the lemon-butter mixture over the cod fillets in the baking dish. Make sure to distribute it across all the fillets, ensuring each piece gets a good coating. This lemon-butter drizzle is a key step in adding flavor and keeping the cod moist during baking. The acidity of the lemon juice will also help to tenderize the fish.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon-Parsley Panko Topping

• In a medium bowl, mix together panko, garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, minced fresh Italian parsley, lemon zest, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix these dry ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring that the garlic, parsley, and lemon zest are evenly distributed throughout the panko. This mixture forms the flavorful and crispy crust that will top the cod.
• Add 3 tablespoons melted butter and stir until combined: Pour the remaining 3 tablespoons of melted butter into the panko mixture. Stir everything together until the panko breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the melted butter and all the ingredients are well combined. The butter will bind the panko mixture together and help it crisp up beautifully in the oven. The mixture should be slightly moist but still crumbly. If it seems too dry, you can add a tiny bit more melted butter, but be careful not to make it too wet, or it won’t crisp up properly.

Step 4: Apply the Panko Topping for Crispy Crust

• Add panko mixture to top of cod, lightly pressing so it adheres to the cod: Take the prepared panko mixture and spoon it evenly over the cod fillets in the baking dish. Gently press the panko mixture onto the top of each fillet so that it adheres well. You don’t need to press too hard, just enough to ensure that the panko stays in place. It’s perfectly okay if some panko falls off the fish and into the dish. This loose panko will also crisp up and add extra texture to the dish. Try to create an even layer of panko topping on each fillet for consistent cooking and crispiness.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

• Bake at 400 degrees for 11-16 minutes depending on the thickness of your cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for 11 to 16 minutes. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your cod fillets. Thinner fillets will cook faster, while thicker fillets will require a bit more time.
• Cod is done when the thickest part is opaque and flaky: The best way to determine if the cod is cooked through is to check for doneness. The cod is cooked when the thickest part is opaque and flakes easily when gently prodded with a fork. The internal temperature of cooked cod should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius). Avoid overbaking the cod, as it can become dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around the 11-minute mark and continue baking until the cod is cooked through and the panko topping is golden brown and crispy. If the panko topping is browning too quickly before the cod is cooked through, you can loosely tent the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from burning.
• Serve immediately: Once the cod is cooked and the panko topping is golden and crispy, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Serve the Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko immediately while it’s hot and the panko crust is at its crispiest.

Following these step-by-step instructions will guide you to create a perfectly baked cod dish with a flavorful lemon-parsley panko crust that is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Nutrition Facts: A Healthy and Delicious Choice

This Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko is not only incredibly delicious but also a healthy and nutritious meal option. Cod is a lean protein source packed with essential nutrients, and this recipe keeps it light and flavorful without adding excessive fats or calories. While precise nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes, here’s an estimated overview of the nutrition facts per serving:

• Servings: 2

This recipe is designed to serve two people as a main course. You can easily adjust the recipe to serve more by increasing the quantities of all ingredients proportionally.

• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories

This is an estimated calorie range per serving. The exact calorie count will depend on factors such as the size of the cod fillets, the amount of butter used, and the specific brand of panko breadcrumbs. Compared to many other breaded and baked fish dishes, this recipe is relatively moderate in calories, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Breakdown of Nutritional Components (per serving, approximate):

• Protein: 40-45 grams

Cod is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and promoting satiety. Protein is a crucial macronutrient for overall health and well-being.

• Fat: 20-25 grams

The fat content primarily comes from the butter and the cod itself. While butter contributes to the richness and flavor, it’s used in moderation in this recipe. Cod is naturally low in fat, especially saturated fat. The fats in this dish are a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats, with some beneficial omega-3 fatty acids from the cod.

• Saturated Fat: 8-10 grams

Saturated fat comes mainly from the butter. While saturated fat should be consumed in moderation, this recipe does not contain excessive amounts.

• Cholesterol: 150-180 mg

Cholesterol is present in cod and butter. Dietary cholesterol has less of an impact on blood cholesterol levels for most people than previously thought.

• Sodium: 400-500 mg

Sodium content will vary depending on the amount of salt added and whether salted or unsalted butter is used. You can control the sodium level by using unsalted butter and adjusting the amount of kosher salt to your preference.

• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams

Carbohydrates primarily come from the panko breadcrumbs. Panko is relatively low in carbohydrates compared to regular breadcrumbs.

• Fiber: 2-3 grams

Fiber content is contributed by the panko breadcrumbs and parsley. While not a high-fiber dish, it provides a small amount of dietary fiber.

Vitamins and Minerals:

Cod is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin B12: Crucial for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
• Vitamin D: Important for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation.
• Selenium: An antioxidant that protects against cell damage and supports thyroid function.
• Phosphorus: Essential for bone health and energy production.
• Niacin (Vitamin B3): Important for energy metabolism and nervous system function.

Health Benefits:

• Lean Protein Source: Cod is a lean protein, making it a great choice for weight management and muscle building.
• Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Cod, like other fatty fish, contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
• Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Cod provides essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health and well-being.
• Relatively Low in Calories: Compared to many other fish preparations, this baked cod recipe is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

This Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko is a delicious way to incorporate healthy fish into your diet. It provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making it a smart and flavorful choice for a nutritious meal.

Preparation Time: Quick and Convenient

One of the greatest advantages of this Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko recipe is its speed and convenience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a healthy and delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking times:

• Prep time: 15 minutes

The prep time for this recipe is remarkably short. It mainly involves:

*   Thawing cod fillets (if using frozen).
*   Greasing the baking dish.
*   Minced garlic and parsley.
*   Zesting and juicing the lemon.
*   Melting the butter.
*   Mixing the lemon-butter drizzle.
*   Combining the panko topping ingredients.

These tasks are all quick and easy, making the prep process efficient and stress-free. You can even streamline the prep further by using pre-minced garlic or pre-chopped parsley, although fresh is always recommended for the best flavor.

• Cook time: 15 minutes

The cook time is also very quick, typically ranging from 11 to 16 minutes, depending on the thickness of your cod fillets. The high oven temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) ensures that the cod cooks through quickly and the panko topping becomes beautifully golden and crispy. Keep an eye on the cod towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overbaking.

• Total time: 30 minutes

From start to finish, this Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko recipe takes approximately 30 minutes. This includes both the prep time and the cook time, making it a truly fast and convenient meal option.

Why this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights:

• Minimal Prep: The short prep time means you can quickly get the dish ready even after a long day.
• Fast Cooking: The quick baking time ensures that dinner is on the table in under 30 minutes.
• Simple Steps: The recipe involves straightforward steps that are easy to follow, even for beginner cooks.
• Make-Ahead Potential (Partial): While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the panko topping mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also drizzle the lemon-butter over the cod and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to add the panko topping just before baking to maintain its crispiness.

This recipe is a lifesaver for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious, healthy, and homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Its quick preparation and cooking times make it a go-to option for a satisfying and stress-free dinner.

How to Serve Baked Cod With Lemon-Parsley Panko: Perfect Pairings

Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of side dishes. Its light, bright, and flavorful profile makes it a wonderful complement to both simple and more elaborate accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Roasted Vegetables:
  • Asparagus: Roasted asparagus spears with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper are a classic pairing. The slight bitterness of asparagus complements the richness of the panko and the brightness of the lemon.
  • Broccoli: Roasted broccoli florets, seasoned with garlic powder and red pepper flakes, offer a hearty and healthy side. The slightly charred broccoli florets provide a nice textural contrast.
  • Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts, perhaps with balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, add a touch of sweetness and depth.
  • Carrots: Roasted carrots, glazed with honey or maple syrup, bring a sweet and earthy element to the plate.
  • Potatoes: Roasted potatoes, either diced or as wedges, provide a comforting and starchy side. Consider roasting them with herbs like rosemary or thyme.
  • Mixed Roasted Vegetables: A medley of your favorite roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes, creates a colorful and nutritious side dish.
• Salads:
  • Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A simple green salad with mixed greens, a light lemon vinaigrette, and perhaps some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, provides a refreshing and light contrast to the richness of the baked cod.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing offers a creamy and satisfying salad option.
  • Caprese Salad: A Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze, provides a fresh and vibrant Italian-inspired side.
  • Cucumber and Dill Salad: A refreshing cucumber and dill salad with a light yogurt or sour cream dressing adds a cool and crisp element to the meal.
  • Mediterranean Salad: A Mediterranean salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette complements the lemon flavors in the cod.
• Grains and Starches:
  • Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa, cooked in vegetable broth, is a healthy and protein-rich grain that pairs well with baked cod.
  • Rice: Steamed rice, brown rice, or wild rice provides a simple and versatile base for the cod and its panko topping.
  • Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous, perhaps tossed with herbs and lemon zest, is a quick and easy grain side dish.
  • Pasta: Light pasta dishes, like pasta primavera or pasta with lemon and herbs, can be served alongside the baked cod.
  • Polenta: Creamy polenta provides a comforting and flavorful starchy side that complements the crispy cod.
• Sauces and Dips:
  • Lemon-Garlic Aioli: A homemade lemon-garlic aioli or store-bought aioli adds extra creamy and garlicky flavor to the dish.
  • Tartar Sauce: Classic tartar sauce is always a great accompaniment to baked fish.
  • Remoulade Sauce: A zesty remoulade sauce provides a flavorful and tangy dipping option.
  • Fresh Herb Sauce: A vibrant fresh herb sauce, like chimichurri or gremolata, adds a burst of fresh flavor and complements the lemon and parsley in the panko topping.
  • Yogurt-Dill Sauce: A cool and creamy yogurt-dill sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the crispy cod.
• Bread:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread, such as baguette or sourdough, for soaking up any delicious juices from the cod and panko topping.
  • Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds a comforting and flavorful carbohydrate element to the meal.

Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner: Pair with a simple roasted vegetable like broccoli or asparagus and a quick quinoa or rice side for a fast and healthy weeknight meal.
• Weekend Dinner Party: Serve with a more elaborate roasted vegetable medley, a flavorful salad like Caprese or Mediterranean salad, and a side of creamy polenta for a more impressive dinner party meal.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy a smaller portion of baked cod with a fresh green salad for a light and healthy lunch.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different side dishes to find your favorite pairings and create a complete and satisfying meal.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Cod With Lemon-Parsley Panko

While this recipe is already quite straightforward and forgiving, here are five additional tips to ensure your Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko turns out perfectly every time:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Ensure that the cod fillets are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish and not overcrowded. Overcrowding can cause the cod to steam instead of bake, resulting in uneven cooking and a less crispy panko topping. If you are cooking for a larger crowd, use two baking dishes or bake in batches. Proper spacing allows for better heat circulation around each fillet, promoting even cooking and browning.
2. Pat the Cod Fillets Dry: Before drizzling the lemon-butter mixture and adding the panko topping, pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the lemon-butter drizzle adhere better to the fish and prevents the panko topping from becoming soggy. Dry cod fillets will also brown more effectively in the oven, resulting in a crispier crust.
3. Toast the Panko for Extra Flavor and Crunch (Optional): For an even more intense flavor and enhanced crunch, consider toasting the panko breadcrumbs before adding them to the topping mixture. To toast panko, spread them in a dry skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until they are lightly golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Let them cool slightly before mixing them with the other topping ingredients. Toasted panko will add a deeper, nuttier flavor and an extra layer of crispiness to the crust.
4. Adjust Baking Time Based on Cod Thickness: The recipe provides a baking time range of 11-16 minutes, but the exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your cod fillets. Thinner fillets will cook faster, while thicker fillets will require more time. Start checking for doneness around the 11-minute mark and continue baking until the cod is opaque and flaky and the panko topping is golden brown. Use a fork to gently flake the cod at the thickest part to check for doneness. Avoid overbaking, as it can make the cod dry and tough.
5. Broil for Extra Browning (Optional): If you want an even more golden-brown and crispy panko topping, you can broil the cod for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. After the cod is cooked through, switch the oven to broil (high heat) and broil for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. Broiling will quickly crisp up the panko topping and give it a beautiful golden-brown color. Be very careful when broiling, as panko can burn quickly.

By following these additional tips, you can elevate your Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko to the next level and ensure a truly perfect and delicious result every time. Experiment with these techniques and find what works best for your oven and your preferences.

FAQ Section: Your Ingredient Questions Answered

Do you have questions about the ingredients in this Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko recipe? We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you understand the ingredients better and make informed choices when preparing this dish:

Q1: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

A: While panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their superior crispiness, you can use regular breadcrumbs as a substitute in a pinch. However, the texture will be different. Regular breadcrumbs are finer and denser than panko, so they won’t create the same light and airy crispness. If using regular breadcrumbs, you might want to use slightly less (about ½ cup instead of ¾ cup) and consider toasting them beforehand to enhance their texture and flavor. Panko is truly the key to the signature crispy crust of this dish, so if possible, stick with panko for the best results.

Q2: I don’t have fresh parsley. Can I use dried parsley?

A: Fresh parsley is preferred for its bright and vibrant flavor, but you can use dried parsley if needed. When substituting dried herbs for fresh, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. A general rule of thumb is to use about 1/3 the amount of dried herbs as fresh. So, if the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, you would use about 2 teaspoons of dried parsley. While dried parsley will provide some flavor, it won’t have the same fresh, herbaceous taste as fresh parsley. If possible, try to use fresh parsley for the best flavor profile in this recipe.

Q3: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?

A: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor in this recipe. Bottled lemon juice can sometimes have a slightly metallic or less vibrant flavor compared to fresh lemon juice. However, in a pinch, you can use bottled lemon juice. If using bottled lemon juice, taste it first to assess its flavor and adjust the amount accordingly. Fresh lemon juice provides a brighter, cleaner, and more authentic lemon flavor that truly elevates the dish. Zesting the lemon is also crucial for adding intense lemon aroma and flavor, and you can only get fresh lemon zest from a fresh lemon.

Q4: Can I substitute olive oil for butter in this recipe?

A: Yes, you can substitute olive oil for butter in this recipe, especially in the panko topping mixture. Olive oil is a healthier fat option and will still provide moisture and help the panko crisp up. However, butter does contribute a richer flavor and superior browning to the panko topping compared to olive oil. If you are using olive oil, choose a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. For the lemon-butter drizzle on the cod, butter is highly recommended for its flavor and richness, but you could use olive oil as a lighter alternative if preferred.

Q5: What if I don’t have kosher salt? Can I use regular table salt?

A: Kosher salt is preferred by many cooks for its clean taste and ease of use. It is less salty by volume than table salt due to its larger crystals. If you don’t have kosher salt, you can use regular table salt, but you will need to use less of it. As a general guideline, use about half the amount of table salt as you would kosher salt. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, use about ½ teaspoon of table salt. It’s always best to season gradually and taste as you go, regardless of the type of salt you are using, to avoid over-salting the dish.

We hope these FAQs have answered your ingredient questions and provided helpful guidance for preparing this delicious Baked Cod with Lemon-Parsley Panko recipe! Happy cooking!

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