Lemon Basil Baked Cod with Brown Rice Pilaf

Name: Lemon Basil Baked Cod with Brown Rice Pilaf
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 1 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup brown rice; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen); 1 tablespoon butter

By Sophie Greene · 22 June 2025

3Prep min

2Cook min

1Total min

4Serves

MediterraneanCuisine

EasyDifficulty

If you're looking for a light and refreshing dish that's bursting with flavor, this Lemon Basil Baked Cod is a perfect choice. The delicate cod fillets are infused with zesty lemon and fresh basil, creating a dish that feels both elegant and comforting. Served alongside a savory brown rice pilaf, this meal is not only delicious but also nutritious. This recipe is a great way to showcase the beautiful flavors of lemon and basil. It's an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it comes together in no time. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this delightful experience! A Fresh and Flavorful Cod Recipe The baked cod is tender and flaky, perfectly complemented by the vibrant lemon and aromatic basil. The brown rice pilaf adds a nutty depth to the dish, making it a complete and wholesome meal. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a healthy dinner option, this recipe will become a favorite.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup brown rice
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Cod: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the lemon basil mixture over them.
Bake the Cod: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Cook the Rice Pilaf: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in brown rice and cook for 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until rice is tender.
Finish the Pilaf: When the rice is almost done, stir in the peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Serve: Plate the baked cod alongside the brown rice pilaf and garnish with additional basil if desired.

Cook’s tips

Pat the cod fillets dry before marinating to help the flavors adhere better.
Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best citrus flavor.
For the rice, toast it in the butter and onions until slightly golden to enhance nuttiness.
If your cod fillets are thin, reduce baking time to 12-15 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Let the cod rest for a few minutes after baking to keep it moist.

Substitutions

Use halibut or tilapia instead of cod.
Substitute fresh basil with 1 tablespoon dried basil.
Use quinoa or white rice instead of brown rice, adjusting cooking time.
Swap peas with green beans or asparagus.
Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.

Storage & reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.