Preheat Oven: Begin by heating the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Cod: Place the cod fillet in a lightly greased 5×7 inch baking dish. Surround the fish with cherry tomatoes.
Prepare the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, blend the softened butter, garlic powder, dried tarragon, salt, and pepper together.
Apply the Seasoning: Spread the butter mixture evenly over the top of the cod. Place two slices of lemon on the buttered fish for a fresh, citrusy accent. Then, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the tomatoes to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Baking the Cod: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 17 minutes. The cod is ready when it flakes easily with a fork, indicating perfect doneness.
Notes
Read and Prepare: Before starting, read through the entire recipe and gather all your ingredients. This dish comes together swiftly, so understanding the steps and having everything ready is crucial for a smooth cooking process.
Perfect Baking: Ensure your oven is preheated for even cooking.
Right Fish Cut: Opt for thick, center-cut cod fillets. Their uniform thickness promotes even cooking and helps keep the fish moist and succulent inside.
Alternative Fish Options: If cod isn’t available, great substitutes are haddock, halibut, hake, white sea bass, or striped bass. These fish have a similar texture and flavor to cod, making them excellent alternatives for the recipe.
Monitoring Doneness: Cod is perfectly cooked when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking to maintain its tender texture. Keep a close eye on the oven, especially after the 15-minute mark, as the cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of the fillet.