What to Serve with Baked Cod: 13 Must-Try Ideas 2024

I’m a big fan of cod fish due to its nutritional value and mild taste. And I’ve found that some side dishes can elevate this favorite food.

So, what to serve with baked cod? I have the best 13 ideas right here! Let’s find the perfect combination to upgrade your culinary experience!

What to Serve with Baked Cod

Baked cod can go well with many foods. Yet, the best options are vegetables and whole grains because they offer you nutritional balance. You will also have many recipes to choose from.

Vegetables

Since you can get proteins from baked cod, getting carbohydrates from vegetables will be necessary. If you are a veggie-lover, here are your options.

Roasted New Potatoes

Roasted new potatoes are a versatile side dish. Just get some ingredients and you can make it in a few minutes.

You can season the new potatoes with garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Then, roast the seasoned potatoes at high heat. Finally, they will turn fluffy and soft while the edges remain crispy.

The roasted potatoes will add a savory element to your baked cod. They can also complement the mild nature of the fish.

Potato Salad

You can customize potato salad with your favorite herbs and ingredients. This flexibility makes this dish popular for different gatherings.

You can prepare the salad quickly. Just boil the potatoes first. Then, peel and chop them into bite-size pieces. And here is the interesting step: add extra ingredients to enrich its flavor.

I like pairing potatoes with onions, pickles, celery, and eggs. I also add mayonnaise and sour cream to make it richer. The creamy texture of this dish is the perfect partner for your baked cod.

Steamed Veggies

If you are health-conscious, you will like steamed vegetables. This way, the veggies can keep their nutritional value. The good news is that this simple dish can go well with baked cod.

When steamed, vegetables have a natural flavor. Thus, they don’t overpower the delicate taste of your cod.

Meanwhile, the crisp texture of vegetables will be the opposite of the flaky texture of the baked cod. The difference between the dishes will make every bite interesting!

Carolina Coleslaw

Carolina coleslaw is a classic side dish for baked food. So, if you don’t have any idea how to enjoy your cod, try it.

The vibrant colors of coleslaw make your meal more visually appealing. You will also love the creamy and sweet flavor of this salad. It can match your mild baked cod nicely.

Pineapple Salsa

Do you want some tropical flair to your meal? Then go for pineapple salsa! It combines spicy and sweet flavors nicely. And trust me, they will pair well with baked cod.

To make this dish, just mix juicy pineapple, fresh herbs, and hot peppers. They are all familiar ingredients. Yet, you will love the burst of flavors they bring.

Cucumber Salad

If you prefer a light flavor, I recommend cucumber salad with baked cod. This side dish must be what you need on a hot day.

Cucumber salad has a crunchy texture and cool taste. When mixed with vinegar and dill, it will gently contrast your tender fish. You can also add tomatoes to make it more attractive.

Grilled Asparagus

Baking and grilling can make a perfect match, too. So, if you already have baked cod, why don’t you try grilled asparagus?

I love grilling these vegetables because of their tender interior and charred exterior. They will surely make an exciting addition to my cod meal.

The vibrant color and unique flavor are another plus. They make my dish more aesthetic and gastronomical.

Whole Grains 

Whole grains can also contribute to a balanced cod meal. The best recipes to choose from are:

Brown Rice

Brown rice is abundant in fiber and carbohydrates. When served with baked cod, it will offer a nutritious meal.

If you don’t like the traditional brown rice, prepare the cilantro lime version. You just need to add coriander and lime to it. Then, the new dish will complement the mild taste of your cod.

This combination works well for a full lunch. Go for it, and you will be energetic for the rest of your work day. 

Millet

Millet is also a nutritious grain. If you are looking for a naturally gluten-free grain to pair with baked cod, choose it.

You can make spicy millet-crusted baked cod. Just season your cod as usual. After that, place it onto a greased pan and top it with millet. Then, bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, and there you go!

Barley

There are many ideas to serve barley with baked cod. For example, you can make a barley risotto or prepare a barley and cod salad. 

The nutty flavor of barley can match the gentle taste of baked cod. So, whichever recipe you choose, you will get a harmonious blend of flavors.

Moreover, barley is rich in essential minerals. You can also use it in different dishes and then pair them with your baked cod.

Quinoa

Quinoa is also one of the most well-liked dishes to serve with baked cod. It can add a nutty and light flavor to your cod meal.

And like barley, quinoa is versatile. Aside from the classic boiling method, you can also make a quinoa salad. This interesting dish will be a wholesome compliment to your dinner with baked cod.

Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf is a combination of long white grain, celery, stock, and onions. This cooking method makes it flavorful.

When done, the rice will turn fluffy with a subtle flavor. I also like the satisfying texture of this dish. All these things make it perfect for my hot baked cod.

If regular rice seems boring to you, try rice pilaf. Remember not to stir the rice while cooking. Otherwise, it will end up mushy.

Angel Hair Pasta

Angel hair pasta is a thin and long noodle. The rounded shape makes it look like spaghetti, but it’s not.

Rice can make you full, but eating it every day can be dull. So try angel hair pasta. The mixture of fish and pasta will offer a totally different culinary experience.

Is Baked Cod Healthy?

Yes. Cod has many vitamins, minerals, proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids. Here is what you can get from eating baked cod: 

Avoiding Asthma

The selenium content in baked cod can improve your immunity and cardiovascular health. It will also prevent cancer.

Moreover, asthma links to your body’s inflammation and stress levels. In this case, selenium can help avoid those systems as it releases antioxidants.

Reducing Diabetes

The fish doesn’t contain carbohydrates. As a low-fat ingredient, it must be perfect for those with diabetes.

Good for Hair and Skin

Selenium can help prevent hair fall. I often include this fish in my meals since it helps promote hair growth.

Plus, if you have skin issues like dry skin, irritation, or acne, eat baked cod more often. The fatty acids in the fish will improve your skill’s conditions.

Reducing Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis happens when plaque forms in your arteries. In this case, you need antioxidants in baked cod to reduce blood clotting.

Lowering Bad Cholesterols

Cod offers a reasonable amount of essential nutrients and fatty acids. It means you can get what you need in moderation.

For example, you should consume fats, but too much is not good. So that’s when you want to get high-quality fats from food like baked cod.

An adequate intake of fats is important. If done right, the fatty acids can help reduce bad cholesterol in your body.

Good for Weight Management

Baking is a good cooking method because it requires little or no oil. The low-calorie content in baked cod, therefore, is ideal for those on a diet.

Enhancing Brain Functions

The omega-3 fatty acids in baked cod can help maintain optimal brain functions. They also improve cognitive performance.

How to Bake Cod at 350

The ideal temperature for baking cod fish is from 350 to 450°F. It ensures your food can remain in the safe zone and avoid bacterial growth. However, the exact temperature and cooking vary depending on the size of your fish. 

Here is how to bake cod at 350:

• Firstly, preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Place your cod filets on the dish and season them with pepper and salt.
• Combine butter, flour, garlic, lemon juice, basil, mustard, and onion powder in a mixing bowl.
• Apply the mixture to the filets.
• Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. If you can poke the filets with a fork easily, then your food is ready.

FAQs

What Seasoning for Baked Cod?

It depends on your taste. If you like something simple, choose pepper, salt, and lemon wedges. Other herbs and spices like paprika, thyme, rosemary, and ground chile can fit. 

Do You Cover Cod When Baking?

It’s optional, but you should. If you wrap the cod in foil, there will be a steaming effect. Then, you can reduce cooking time while keeping the flavors.

How Do You Know When Cod Is Done Baking?

You can check by pressing down on the fish with your fingers. If it feels firm, it’s ready but if it is still soft, then you should wait a few minutes.

What to Serve with Ina Garten Baked Cod?

You can serve Ina Garten baked cod with a green vegetable. I highly recommend Cacio e Pepe Roasted Asparagus. Otherwise, go for a classic style like Emily’s English Roasted Potatoes.

Final Thoughts

You may serve baked cod with vegetables and whole grains. These foods can complement the flavor of the fish, and you can also achieve a nutritional balance.

Hopefully, those recipes can inspire you to create a fantastic meal. Feel free to experiment with and choose your perfect match.