15-Minute One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod: Insanely Delicious

You know those nights when you’re staring into the fridge, willing dinner to magically appear? That’s exactly how I discovered this One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod recipe – out of desperation and a serious need for something quick, healthy, and delicious. The moment I tried it, I was hooked (pun totally intended). Just one pan, a few fresh ingredients, and 25 minutes later, you’ve got tender flaky fish with the most amazing bright lemon-dill flavor. It’s become my go-to when I want a meal that feels fancy but requires zero fuss. Trust me, your weeknight self will thank you for this one.

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Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod

This recipe checks all the boxes:

  • Quick magic: From fridge to table in under 30 minutes – perfect for those “I forgot to plan dinner” emergencies
  • Healthy glow-up: Packed with lean protein and fresh flavors that make you feel good
  • One-pan wonder: Less dishes means more time relaxing (or scrolling through recipes for dessert)
  • Bright flavors: That zesty lemon-dill combo tastes like summer by the sea

Honestly? It’s the kind of meal that makes you look like a kitchen rockstar with minimal effort.

Ingredients for One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod

Gather these simple ingredients – I promise you probably have most already:

  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each): Look for thick, even pieces so they cook uniformly
  • 2 tbsp olive oil: My secret? Use the good stuff – it makes a difference!
  • 1 lemon, sliced: Thin slices work best for laying across the fish
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Don’t even think about dried – fresh is everything here
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because garlic makes everything better
  • 1/2 tsp salt & 1/4 tsp black pepper: Basic but essential
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: They burst beautifully in the oven
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional): Adds lovely depth, but skip if you prefer

That’s it, Simple, fresh, and ready to transform into something magical.

How to Make One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod

Okay, let’s get cooking. This method is so simple you’ll wonder why you ever ordered takeout:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) – don’t skip this. A properly hot oven means perfectly cooked fish.
  2. Drizzle olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet (cast iron works beautifully). Give it a quick swirl to coat the bottom.
  3. Season those cod fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides – this is your flavor foundation.
  4. Top each fillet with minced garlic (I use my microplane for super fine garlic), then arrange lemon slices and sprinkle that gorgeous fresh dill over everything.
  5. Toss in those cherry tomatoes around the fish – they’ll roast and release amazing juices.
  6. Optional but amazing: Pour white wine over everything for extra flavor depth (just a splash does wonders).
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes – fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still looks moist. Don’t overcook.
  8. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges for squeezing. That first bite of lemony, garlicky perfection? Pure bliss.

Tips for Perfect One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod

Here are my tried-and-true tricks:

  • Marinate magic: Let the cod sit with lemon juice and dill for 10 minutes before cooking – it makes the flavors pop.
  • No dill? Fresh parsley works beautifully in a pinch.
  • Pan panic? If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, line it with parchment paper before adding ingredients.

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod

This gorgeous fish deserves equally vibrant sides. My absolute favorite pairing is lemony quinoa – it soaks up all those delicious pan juices beautifully. For something heartier, try garlic roasted potatoes or a simple crusty baguette to mop up every last bit of flavor.

Keep it light with roasted asparagus or zucchini ribbons – they cook at the same temp as the fish, so you can pop them in together. And always, always have extra lemon wedges on the side for that perfect bright finish.

Storing and Reheating One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod

Leftovers? No problem. Just tuck them in the fridge in an airtight container – they’ll stay fresh for 2-3 days. When reheating, go low and slow (about 300°F in the oven) with a splash of water or broth to keep the fish moist. Whatever you do, don’t nuke it – microwaving turns this delicate fish into rubber. Pro tip: The lemony tomatoes taste even better the next day stirred into pasta or tossed with greens.

One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod Variations

Love this recipe but want to mix it up? Try swapping the cod for halibut or salmon – both work beautifully. Out of dill? Thyme or tarragon bring their own unique flair. For veggies, toss in asparagus spears or zucchini slices alongside the tomatoes. The possibilities are endless – make it your own.

Nutritional Information for One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod

Here’s the skinny on this light and healthy dish: packed with lean protein and fresh flavors while keeping calories in check. Remember, nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes – but trust me, this meal makes eating well absolutely delicious.

One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Absolutely, Just thaw it completely in the fridge overnight first. Pat it super dry with paper towels – frozen fish tends to be extra watery, and we want that beautiful sear, not a steamed mess.

Is the white wine really necessary?

Nope, It adds lovely depth, but the recipe works perfectly without it. Try subbing with a splash of chicken broth or even just a tablespoon of water if you’re avoiding alcohol. The lemon and dill still shine bright.

My fish stuck to the pan – help!

Been there, Make sure your pan is properly oiled and hot before adding the fish. If your skillet isn’t well-seasoned, that parchment paper trick I mentioned earlier is a lifesaver. And remember – let the fish cook undisturbed until it naturally releases.

Can I prep this ahead?

You bet, Chop the dill, slice the lemons, and mince the garlic up to a day in advance. Just keep everything in separate containers in the fridge. The actual cooking? Best done fresh – this dish comes together so fast anyway.

Share Your One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod Experience

I’d love to hear how your cod turns out. Did you add your own twist? Snap a pic and tag me – nothing makes me happier than seeing my recipes in your kitchens. Now go enjoy that lemony goodness.

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15-Minute One-Pan Lemon Dill Cod: Insanely Delicious

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A quick and easy one-pan meal featuring tender cod fillets flavored with fresh lemon and dill.

  • Author: RecipeZest
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Drizzle olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet.
  3. Place cod fillets in the skillet and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Top each fillet with minced garlic, lemon slices, and chopped dill.
  5. Scatter cherry tomatoes around the fish.
  6. Pour white wine over the fish if using.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
  8. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the cod in lemon juice and dill for 10 minutes before cooking.
  • Substitute parsley if you don’t have fresh dill.
  • Use parchment paper if your skillet isn’t oven-safe.

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