Baked Cod with Lemon Garlic Orzo
Mediterranean Herb-Crusted Cod with Lemon Garlic Orzo Pilaf
Ingredients:
4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, plus 1 lemon sliced for garnish
4 cloves garlic, minced, divided
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, divided
1 1/2 cups orzo pasta
3 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced (optional)
1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Lemon zest from 1 lemon
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels and place in a baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, half the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
Brush the herb mixture evenly over the cod fillets. Place lemon slices on top of the fish.
In a medium oven-safe skillet or saucepan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the orzo to the skillet and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.
Pour in the broth and remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
When the orzo is almost cooked but still has a little liquid left, stir in the cherry tomatoes, olives (if using), and spinach. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
While the orzo is finishing, place the cod in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Once the orzo has absorbed all the liquid, remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest, remaining parsley, dill, and feta cheese (if using).
Serve the baked cod over a portion of the lemon garlic orzo.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 385 kcal | Servings: 4 servings