Grilled Cod with Lemon-Herb Marinade Recipe
Introduction
Grilled cod with a lemon-herb marinade is a light and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual weekend barbecue. The bright citrus and fresh herbs elevate the mild, flaky fish, making it a healthy and delicious option for seafood lovers.

Ingredients
- 1 lb cod fillets
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Step 2: Brush the marinade evenly over both sides of the cod fillets and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Step 3: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, and lightly oil the grates or pan surface to prevent sticking.
- Step 4: Grill the cod fillets for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 5: Transfer the cooked cod to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and extra parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the marinade.
- If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried parsley and thyme can be used, but reduce the quantity to half.
- Serve the grilled cod over a bed of rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftover grilled cod in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in a microwave for about 30 seconds, taking care not to overcook and dry out the fish.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cod can be used. Thaw it completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure better flavor absorption and even cooking.
What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?
You can cook the marinated cod in a non-stick skillet over medium heat or bake it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes until cooked through.
PrintGrilled Cod with Lemon-Herb Marinade Recipe
This Grilled Cod with Lemon-Herb Marinade recipe features tender and flaky cod fillets perfectly infused with a bright, zesty marinade made from olive oil, fresh lemon juice and zest, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Ideal for a light and flavorful meal, the cod is quickly marinated and grilled to perfection, served with fresh lemon wedges to enhance the citrus aroma. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that works wonderfully for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Fish
- 1 lb cod fillets
Marinade
- 3 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Cod: Brush the marinade evenly over both sides of the cod fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Allow the fillets to rest for 10–15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or the surface of the pan to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Cod: Place the cod fillets on the grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side. Grill until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove the grilled cod from the heat and transfer to a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and extra parsley if desired, then serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- Ensure the grill or grill pan is well oiled to prevent the delicate fish from sticking.
- Do not over-marinate the fish; 10-15 minutes is sufficient to impart flavor without breaking down the texture.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact.
- If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works just as well.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: grilled cod, lemon herb marinade, healthy seafood, quick dinner, fish recipe, light meal

