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Oven-baked cod with lemon and fish sauce - an exceptionally simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. This recipe combines delicate textures and fresh flavors, offering a dish that will delight both fish lovers and those seeking a nutritious meal.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (approximately 150-200 g each)
- 1 fresh lemon
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce (you can use soy sauce as an alternative)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup water (for steaming)

A touch of history:
Cod is a revered fish in many culinary cultures, with a long-standing tradition in global gastronomy. Baked in the oven, cod retains its moisture and juiciness, becoming a light and healthy dish. The pairing with lemon brings a pleasant contrast between acidity and the fish's natural sweetness, while the fish sauce adds an umami note, essential for a balanced taste.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the fish:
- Start by cleaning and rinsing the cod fillets under cold running water. Make sure to remove any bones with a fish tweezers to achieve a finer dish.
- Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel. This step is important for effective marination.

2. Marinating:
- Squeeze the lemon juice into a small bowl and add the fish sauce. Mix the two ingredients well to create a homogeneous marinade.
- In another bowl, season the cod fillets with salt and pepper to taste. Then, pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring each fillet is evenly coated. Let the fish marinate for about 10 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the flesh.

3. Preparing for baking:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. This temperature will help cook the fish evenly, keeping it juicy.
- In a baking dish, place a rack (or a sieve) so that it is above the water. Add a cup of water to the dish, which will create steam during baking, keeping the fish moist.

4. Baking:
- Place the cod fillets on the rack. Cut the remaining lemon into thin slices and place them on top of each fillet. This will not only add flavor but also provide an attractive appearance to the dish.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cod is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque.

5. Serving:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will help stabilize the juices in the fish.
- Serve the cod warm, alongside your favorite side dish. Basmati rice or steamed vegetables are excellent options, and a fresh green salad will perfectly complement the meal.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the fish: Make sure to select fresh cod fillets. The color should be white, and the smell should be of the sea, not of spoiled fish.
- Vegetarian option: You can substitute cod with tofu or eggplant fillets, marinating them in the same way. Steaming will provide a delicate texture.
- Additional seasonings: Feel free to experiment with herbs. A handful of fresh dill or parsley added at the end will bring extra freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can also use other types of white fish, such as halibut or tilapia. Just make sure the baking time matches the type of fish chosen.

- How can I adjust the salt level?
If using soy sauce instead of fish sauce, adjust the amount of added salt, as soy sauce is already salty.

- What can I do with the leftovers?
Leftover fish can be used in salads or sandwiches, adding a delicious and healthy touch.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This oven-baked cod recipe provides approximately 250-300 kcal per serving, depending on the side dish. Cod is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins, offering benefits for heart and brain health.

Serving suggestion:
For an extra touch of flavor, you can serve the cod with a mango or avocado salsa, which will add a tropical note to your dish. A glass of dry white wine or a mint lemonade cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

Now it’s time to start cooking! This oven-baked cod with lemon and fish sauce will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of freshness to your menu. Enjoy your meal!