Zesty Chili-Lime Cod Fillets

Zesty Chili-Lime Cod Fillets: A Flavorful and Healthy Seafood Dish

If you’re looking to add some zest to your weeknight dinners, these Zesty Chili-Lime Cod Fillets are the perfect solution. This recipe combines a bold blend of spices with the freshness of lime, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and healthy. Whether you’re following a specific diet like Paleo or Whole30, or just looking for a delicious way to enjoy fish, this cod recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cod Fillets:

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 cod fillets
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or ghee for Paleo & Whole30)
• Zest and juice of 2 limes

For Serving:

• Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
• Your favorite vegetable

Directions

1. Prepare the Spice Rub:

In a small bowl, combine the paprika, dried parsley, oregano, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix the spices well to create a flavorful rub for the cod fillets.

2. Season the Cod:

Brush the cod fillets with 1 tablespoon of the extra-virgin olive oil. Then, generously rub the spice mixture onto the fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. For best results, refrigerate the seasoned cod for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If time allows, you can refrigerate the fish for up to 12 hours.

3. Preheat the Oven:

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, and place the cod fillets on the prepared sheet.

4. Roast the Cod:

Roast the cod fillets in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The high heat will help the fillets cook quickly while retaining their moisture.

5. Make the Lime Butter:

While the cod is roasting, prepare the lime butter. In a small saucepot, melt the unsalted butter (or ghee) along with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over low heat. Add the zest and juice of two limes, swirling the pot to combine the flavors. This zesty lime butter will add a burst of citrusy freshness to the dish.

6. Serve:

To serve, place the roasted cod fillets over a bed of your chosen accompaniment—rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice all work well. Drizzle the lime butter generously over the fish, and serve alongside your favorite vegetable for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

These Zesty Chili-Lime Cod Fillets pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light and healthy meal, serve the cod over cauliflower rice with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, opt for quinoa or traditional rice as a base. The bright lime butter complements the spicy rub on the cod, making each bite a delightful blend of flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Zesty Chili-Lime Cod Fillets recipe is a quick and easy way to bring bold, exciting flavors to your dinner table. The combination of spices, lime, and tender cod creates a dish that’s not only delicious but also nutritious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to fit into various dietary plans, including Paleo and Whole30.

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Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 52 minutes
Servings: 2

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this vibrant seafood dish! If you try the recipe, please share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag me in your photos on social media—I’d love to see how your Zesty Chili-Lime Cod Fillets turn out!

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