1 to 1-1/4lbscod fillets, about 1 inch thick (see notes for substitutions)
4tablespoonsfreshly squeezed lemon juice, divided
4tablespoonsextra virgin olive oil, divided
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3tablespoonsbutter
3clovesgarlic, minced
1/4teaspooncrushed red pepper
3/4cupfresh breadcrumbs
2tablespoonsfresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F and thoroughly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray and add the cod fillets.
Try to choose a dish that will accommodate your fish in a single layer with little or no room left over. If your fillets have thin portions (as most do), it's a good idea to overlap them a bit to keep the thickness somewhat uniform.
Drizzle the fish with 1 tablespoon each of the lemon juice and olive oil, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
In a separate skillet, heat the remaining olive oil together with the butter over medium heat.
Add the garlic and crushed red pepper and sauté just until garlic begins to turn golden (do not brown).
Remove from the heat, stir in the remaining lemon juice, breadcrumbs and parsley.
Spread the crumb mixture evenly over the fish and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily.
Serve immediately (this dish is served casserole-style - you don't have to portion out individual fillets).
Tips for Making This Recipe
This recipe works nicely with just about any thick, flaky white fish. If you can't get cod, try haddock, pollack, or grouper.