Enjoy tender, flavorful Grilled Cod seasoned with garlic, paprika, and a hint of pepper. This quick and healthy dish is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or a light summer meal. Simple yet delicious, this recipe is gluten-free, paleo-friendly, and a guaranteed hit for seafood lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes.
- Light, healthy, and packed with bold, smoky flavors.
- Gluten-free and paleo-friendly.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or outdoor grilling.
- Pairs well with a variety of sides for a versatile meal.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 (4-ounce) cod fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
- Pat Dry: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season the Cod: In a small bowl, mix the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle the cod fillets with olive oil and rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides.
Step 2: Grill the Cod
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F–400°F). Oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Cod: Place the cod fillets on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 3: Serve
- Garnish: Transfer the cod to a serving plate and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets. Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve Hot: Serve immediately with additional lemon wedges on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning for extra heat.
- Herb-Infused: Sprinkle with dried oregano or thyme for added flavor.
- Butter Upgrade: Brush the fillets with melted garlic butter before serving for a richer taste.
- Citrus Twist: Use lime instead of lemon for a zesty variation.
- Oven Option: Bake the seasoned cod in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked cod in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, thaw the cod completely in the refrigerator and pat it dry before seasoning and grilling.
2. What’s the best way to prevent cod from sticking to the grill?
Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled, and avoid moving the fish too soon while grilling.
3. Can I make this recipe on a stovetop?
Yes, cook the cod in a grill pan or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
4. How do I know when the cod is cooked?
The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Can I use a different type of fish?
Yes, this recipe works well with other mild white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
6. Can I marinate the cod?
Yes, marinate the cod in olive oil, lemon juice, and spices for 15–20 minutes before grilling for enhanced flavor.
7. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, finely minced fresh garlic can be rubbed onto the cod with the olive oil for a bolder garlic flavor.
8. What sides go well with grilled cod?
Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
9. Can I cook cod in foil packets?
Yes, wrap the seasoned cod in foil packets with lemon slices and grill for 8–10 minutes.
10. Can I add vegetables to the grill with the cod?
Absolutely! Zucchini, asparagus, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes make excellent grilled side dishes.
Conclusion
Grilled Cod with Garlic & Paprika is a quick and healthy recipe that delivers tender, flavorful results every time. With its smoky, garlicky seasoning and a squeeze of fresh lemon, this dish is perfect for weeknight meals or summer cookouts. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes!
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Grilled Cod Recipe with Garlic & Paprika
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Grilled Cod Recipe with Garlic and Paprika delivers tender, flavorful fish seasoned to perfection! Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a healthy, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly option perfect for weeknight dinners or summer grilling.
Ingredients
Seafood:
- 4 (4-ounce) cod fillets
Produce:
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 lemon (sliced into wedges)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Oils & Vinegars:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the Cod:
- Season the Fish:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of the fillets with olive oil. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Grill the Cod:
- Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Cod:
- Place the seasoned fillets on the grill. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be gentle when flipping to avoid breaking the fillets.
Serve:
- Garnish and Plate:
- Transfer the grilled cod to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing over the fish.
Notes
- Substitute cod with halibut, haddock, or tilapia if desired.
- For extra flavor, marinate the cod in olive oil, lemon juice, and the seasonings for 15 minutes before grilling.
- Pair with grilled vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American