Looking for a carnivore-friendly dish that’s both elegant and effortless? This baked lemon butter cod offers a perfect harmony of flavors while staying true to the simplicity of the carnivore diet.
Whether you’re a seasoned follower of this dietary approach or trying it for the first time, this dish is a standout option that combines minimal ingredients with maximum taste.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This cod dish is a refreshing take on carnivore cuisine, balancing the richness of butter with a light citrus note. It requires only a handful of ingredients, making it easy to prepare without sacrificing quality or flavor.
The recipe’s adaptability also means it works for both strict carnivore adherents and those who prefer a slightly flexible approach.
Tips for Perfect Execution
Executing this dish flawlessly depends on a few simple techniques:
- Pat the cod dry: Removing excess moisture ensures the seasoning adheres well and the fish bakes evenly.
- Avoid overcooking: Cod is delicate, and just a few extra minutes can lead to dryness. Keep a close eye after 15 minutes.
- Balance the lemon: While lemon adds brightness, too much can overwhelm the fish. Stick to the recipe’s proportions.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve a perfectly flaky and flavorful result every time.
Adapting to Different Preferences
While this recipe aligns beautifully with carnivore principles, it’s versatile enough to suit other dietary needs:
- Strict carnivore: Omit the lemon and dill. The garlic butter alone delivers plenty of flavor.
- Keto-friendly: Keep the recipe as-is; its low-carb profile makes it a fantastic choice for keto diets.
- Pescatarian-friendly: For those who enjoy seafood without full carnivore adherence, this recipe works perfectly.
Substituting ingredients is straightforward. Swap cod for any mild white fish like haddock or halibut. Replace butter with ghee for a slightly nuttier flavor and added depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can trip you up if certain details are overlooked. Here’s what to avoid:
- Skipping the pat-dry step: Excess moisture on the cod can result in steaming rather than baking, leading to a less desirable texture.
- Using excessive lemon: A little goes a long way—overdoing it can mask the buttery richness.
- Freezing leftovers: While cod freezes well raw, this cooked dish is best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Serving & Storage Tips
This dish is best served immediately, allowing you to enjoy its full flavor while the fish is warm and tender.
A garnish of fresh parsley adds a touch of color, but it’s entirely optional for those adhering strictly to carnivore principles.
If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to two days. While freezing isn’t recommended for this cooked dish, you can prep the butter sauce a day ahead to save time.
Why It’s Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this carnivore-baked lemon butter cod delivers simplicity and sophistication. It’s easy to prepare, quick to cook, and effortlessly delicious—ideal for busy schedules and elevated dining.
Experience the best of carnivore dining with this satisfying and straightforward recipe. It’s proof that simple ingredients can yield incredible results.
Ready to enjoy the rich, buttery goodness? This cod dish will exceed every expectation.
Recipe
Easy Carnivore Diet Baked Lemon Butter Cod
Equipment
- Casserole dish
- Paper towels
- Small bowl for sauce
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
Ingredients
Basic Version:
- 4 cod loins or filets
- 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup butter melted
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
Optional:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Strict Carnivore Variation:
- 4 cod loins or filets
- 1/4 cup butter melted
- 1 clove garlic minced (optional)
- Omit lemon herbs, and seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Extract 1 tablespoon of juice from half the lemon and slice the remaining lemon half into thin rounds.
- Arrange the lemon slices in a single layer in a casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Season the fillets with lemon pepper and dried dill weed, or skip this step for the strict carnivore version.
- Place the seasoned cod over the lemon slices in the casserole dish.
- Drizzle the garlic butter mixture evenly over the fish.
- Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Instructions for Strict Carnivore Version:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Melt the butter in a small bowl. If desired, you may omit the garlic or use it sparingly for a stricter version.
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Arrange the cod fillets directly in the casserole dish (omit the lemon slices).
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the fish, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately while hot, with no garnishes or additional seasonings to keep it strictly carnivore-compliant.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.