Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs
Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the sea right to your kitchen. This recipe combines the tender, flaky texture of fresh cod with the satisfying crunch of Ritz crackers, creating a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs elevate this dish, making it both healthy and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This baked cod recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Crunch: The Ritz cracker gremolata crumbs add an irresistible crunch that complements the tender fish beautifully.
- Versatile Dish: Pair this cod with your favorite sides—salads, vegetables, or grains—for a complete meal that fits any palate.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh fish and zesty flavors, this dish is not just tasty but also nutritious.
- Impressive Presentation: The golden crust and fresh lemon slices make this dish visually appealing for guests or family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To whip up Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these will ensure your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the cod.
- Whisk: Helps blend liquids efficiently for the dressing, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like the gremolata crumbs without mess.
Ingredients
Enjoy this healthy and flavorful dish that incorporates Ritz Crackers for an added crunch.
For the Cod
- 2 pounds fresh cod fillets
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of large lemon
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed and peeled
For the Gremolata Crumbs
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- Zest of large lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Serving
- Fresh lemon slices
How to Make Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures your cod will bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Fish
- Lightly salt the fish on both sides.
- Pour 3 tablespoons of olive oil, lemon juice, white wine, and 1/4 teaspoon salt into the baking dish and whisk together well.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Cod
- Drop in the crushed garlic cloves into the dressing.
- Lay the fillets in the dish, turning them so both sides are moistened by the mixture.
Step 4: Make the Gremolata Crumbs
- In a mixing bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, lemon zest, parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Drizzle with the remaining 3 tablespoons olive oil and toss until evenly moistened.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Spoon the seasoned bread crumbs on top of each fillet in a light, even layer.
Step 6: Bake Until Done
- Bake uncovered until the crumbs are crisp and golden brown and the fish is cooked through (about 15 to 20 minutes). Serve with fresh lemon slices for an extra burst of flavor!
How to Serve Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs
Serving Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs is a delightful experience. The combination of the flaky cod and crunchy gremolata crumbs makes for a visually stunning and tasty dish. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Fresh Lemon Wedges
- Serve the cod with fresh lemon wedges on the side. The added acidity enhances the flavor of the fish.
Over a Bed of Greens
- Place the baked cod on a bed of mixed greens. This adds freshness and color, making it a perfect light meal.
Accompanied by Tartar Sauce
- Offer a small bowl of tartar sauce for dipping. The creamy texture complements the crispy topping perfectly.
Garnished with Parsley
- Sprinkle additional chopped parsley over the top just before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the presentation.
Paired with White Wine
- A chilled glass of white wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing its flavors while providing a refreshing contrast.
How to Perfect Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs
To perfect your Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs, consider these helpful tips that will ensure you achieve an outstanding result every time.
- Choose fresh cod: Opt for high-quality, fresh cod fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t skip salting: Lightly salting the fish before baking helps enhance its natural flavors.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to test if the fish flakes easily; this means it’s cooked through.
- Adjust crumb topping: Feel free to add more herbs or spices to the Ritz cracker crumbs for extra flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs
Complementing your Baked Fresh Cod with delicious side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a crunch and bright color that pairs well with the cod.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide comfort and richness to balance the dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with vegetables offers a nutritious complement to your meal.
- Roasted Broccoli: Roasted broccoli adds a delightful charred flavor that contrasts nicely with the fish.
- Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous pilaf brings texture and absorbs any excess juices from the cod beautifully.
- Grilled Zucchini: Grilled zucchini slices add smokiness and are easy to prepare on any grill or stovetop grill pan.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, making it an excellent pairing for rich seafood dishes.
- Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf is an excellent option that rounds out your plate without overpowering the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the cod fillets properly can lead to bland flavor. Be sure to salt the fish before cooking.
- Using stale crackers: Stale Ritz crackers won’t provide the desired crunch. Always use fresh crackers for the best texture.
- Overcooking the fish: Cod can dry out quickly if overcooked. Monitor your fish closely and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s opaque and flakes easily.
- Neglecting the gremolata: A poorly mixed gremolata can result in uneven flavor. Make sure to mix the crumbs thoroughly with olive oil and spices.
- Not preheating the oven: Placing your dish in a non-preheated oven can affect cooking times. Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.
Freezing Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs that may help you during preparation.
How do I choose fresh cod?
Look for bright eyes and firm flesh that springs back when pressed. Avoid any fish with a strong odor.
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other white fish like tilapia or halibut. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
What is gremolata?
Gremolata is a mixture of herbs, lemon zest, and sometimes garlic. It adds freshness and flavor to dishes.
How can I add more flavor to my cod dish?
You can add herbs like thyme or dill or incorporate citrus slices while baking for additional flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Sure! Substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Final Thoughts
Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. This dish is not only healthy but also versatile—experiment by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste preference. Try it today for a comforting meal that is sure to impress!
Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Baked Fresh Cod with Ritz Cracker Gremolata Crumbs is a scrumptious seafood dish that combines the flaky tenderness of fresh cod with a delightful crunchy topping made from Ritz crackers. This easy-to-make recipe elevates your dinner table with its bright flavors of lemon and herbs, making it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. With just 30 minutes of preparation, you can serve a healthy, visually appealing meal that impresses family and friends alike. Pair it with a side salad or your favorite grains to create a wholesome dining experience.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh cod fillets
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Lightly salt the cod fillets on both sides. In a baking dish, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, white wine, and salt.
- Add crushed garlic to the mixture, then lay the cod fillets in the dish to coat them evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with lemon zest, parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes, and additional salt. Drizzle with olive oil and mix until moistened.
- Top each cod fillet with the cracker mixture evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the crumbs are golden brown and the fish flakes easily.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 ounces (170g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
