Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
This Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe brings the fresh flavors of the sea right into your kitchen with very little effort. Tender, flaky cod fillets are infused with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and bright, herbaceous parsley for a truly refreshing meal. Not only is this dish nourishing and light, but it also cooks to perfection in just minutes thanks to the air fryer. If you’re searching for a fast, healthy, and delicious seafood recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this is the one you’ll want to come back to again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—each ingredient in the Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe brings something important to the table, enhancing the fish without overpowering it. A hint of citrus, a touch of spice, and a sprinkle of herbs come together to create a colorful, flavorful dinner you’ll crave any night of the week.
- Cod fillets: Choose fresh or thawed fillets for the most tender, flaky result; cod’s mildness allows the bright flavors to shine.
- Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the seasoning adhere, while also giving the fish a beautiful, golden finish.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced garlic infuses each bite with warm, savory depth that complements the fish perfectly.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the whole dish with a burst of citrus freshness—freshly squeezed is best!
- Lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus aroma and flavor, elevating the cod to something truly special.
- Paprika: Lends subtle warmth and a touch of color, making the dish as appealing to the eyes as the palate.
- Salt: Essential for amplifying all the flavors while seasoning the fish just right.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and a balancing earthiness.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brings a burst of vibrant color and herbal notes that tie everything together.
- Lemon wedges: Serve on the side for an extra squeeze of zestiness right at the table.
How to Make Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cod fillets will cook quickly and evenly, producing that lovely, slightly crisp exterior while the inside remains tender and juicy. A hot air fryer also helps keep the fish from sticking to the basket.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod Fillets
Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step removes excess moisture, allowing the oil and seasonings to adhere better and giving the fish a beautiful texture once cooked. Dry fillets also help avoid any splattering during air frying.
Step 3: Mix the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple marinade packs the Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe with layers of flavor, from citrusy brightness to gentle heat.
Step 4: Coat the Fillets
Brush or rub the olive oil-lemon mixture evenly over both sides of each cod fillet. Make sure each piece is generously coated—this not only seasons the fish but also helps it retain moisture during air frying.
Step 5: Air Fry the Cod
Place the fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure a perfectly even texture. The cod is ready when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork, the hallmark of perfectly cooked fish in this Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe.
Step 6: Add Parsley and Serve
Once cooked, gently remove the cod fillets from the basket and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve them warm, paired with vibrant lemon wedges for that final, juicy squeeze right before your first bite.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing finishes off Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe quite like a handful of freshly chopped parsley and a wedge or two of lemon. These add both visual appeal and a pop of flavor, bringing out the dish’s bright, springtime feel. For something extra, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can really enhance every bite.
Side Dishes
This light, flavorful cod pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Classic options include steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad. For something heartier, try serving it alongside quinoa, fluffy rice, or roasted potatoes—you really can’t go wrong!
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with your plating! Stack the cod over sautéed spinach and drizzle with a light lemon butter sauce for a restaurant-style look. Serve family-style on a bed of couscous with grilled vegetables, or flake the cod into tacos with shredded lettuce, cabbage, and a zippy yogurt sauce for a fun, weeknight twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, and the flavors only improve as they meld together. Remember to refrigerate promptly for the best taste and food safety.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze the cooked cod! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag. It’s best enjoyed within a month for optimal freshness and flavor. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To keep the cod moist and flaky, reheat gently in the air fryer or oven at 300°F (150°C) for just a few minutes until heated through. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can make fish rubbery. Serve with a fresh garnish of parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon to revive the flavors!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This ensures the seasoning sticks and the fish cooks evenly in the air fryer.
What’s the best way to tell if the cod is cooked through?
Perfectly cooked cod will turn opaque and flake easily with a fork when pressed at the thickest part. If you’re unsure, an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) means your fish is safe and ready to enjoy.
Can I swap cod for another type Main Course
Absolutely! This Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe is just as delicious with haddock or halibut. Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness and density of your chosen fillets.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free or low-carb diet?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking for a healthy, wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add extra seasonings or toppings?
Feel free! Sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese before air frying, or add a touch of smoked paprika for more complexity. You could even try a drizzle of herbed yogurt or aioli for serving.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe yet, now is the perfect time! This fast, fresh, and foolproof meal is sure to become your new favorite for busy weeknights or impressive but easy entertaining. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a little taste of sunshine, right at your dinner table!
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Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a delicious and healthy meal with this Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley recipe. Tender cod fillets seasoned with a zesty mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and spices, cooked to perfection in the air fryer, and garnished with fresh parsley. A quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Cod Fillets:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
Seasoning Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Serving:
- lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Cod: Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels.
- Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Season Cod: Brush or rub the seasoning mixture over both sides of the fillets.
- Cook Cod: Place seasoned cod in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle cooked cod with fresh parsley. Serve warm with lemon wedges.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan before cooking.
- This recipe also works well with haddock or halibut. Adjust cooking time based on fillet thickness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 390 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
