Zesty Lemon Dill Crusted Cod

Featured in: Supper Club Comforts

This dish features skinless cod fillets topped with a crunch crust made from lemon zest, fresh dill, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. The crust is pressed firmly on and baked until golden and crisp, providing a bright citrus flavor complemented by herbaceous notes. Ideal for a light main, the cod remains moist and flakes easily after baking for 15-20 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges for an added fresh zing.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:37:00 GMT
Crispy Zesty Lemon & Dill Crusted Cod served with vibrant lemon wedges and herbs.  Save to Pinterest
Crispy Zesty Lemon & Dill Crusted Cod served with vibrant lemon wedges and herbs. | buddybiteskitchen.com

A vibrant, flavorful cod dish featuring a crispy lemon and dill crust, perfect for a refreshing and healthy dinner.

This recipe became a family favorite after my first try it’s both healthy and delicious

Ingredients

  • Fish: 4 cod fillets (about 150 g each) skinless and boneless
  • Crust: 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs Zest of 1 large lemon 2 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped (or 1 tbsp dried dill) 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp olive oil 1/2 tsp sea salt 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • For Serving: Lemon wedges

Instructions

Preheat the oven:
Set to 200°C (400°F) Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it
Prepare cod fillets:
Pat dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet
Make crust mixture:
Combine breadcrumbs lemon zest dill parsley Parmesan olive oil salt and pepper Mix until breadcrumbs are evenly coated with oil and herbs
Apply crust:
Press mixture evenly onto the top of each cod fillet gently pressing to adhere
Bake:
In the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cod flakes easily with a fork
Serve:
Immediately with lemon wedges
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| buddybiteskitchen.com

One weekend the family gathered around the dinner table and this cod recipe was gone in minutes

Notes

Substitute cod with haddock or pollock if desired

Required Tools

Baking sheet Mixing bowl Fine grater or zester Knife and chopping board Measuring spoons cups

Allergen Information

Contains fish (cod) and milk (Parmesan cheese) Contains gluten (breadcrumbs) For gluten-free use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure Parmesan is gluten-free Always check ingredient labels if uncertain

Delicious Zesty Lemon & Dill Crusted Cod freshly baked, bursting with flavor and texture.  Save to Pinterest
Delicious Zesty Lemon & Dill Crusted Cod freshly baked, bursting with flavor and texture. | buddybiteskitchen.com

This recipe is a simple way to enjoy a healthy meal full of zest and texture that the whole family will love

Common Recipe Questions

How do I ensure the crust sticks to the cod?

Pat the cod fillets dry before applying the lemon and herb crumb mixture, then press the crust firmly on each fillet to help it adhere during baking.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried dill can be used but reduce the quantity by half to maintain balanced flavors.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a light salad complement the zesty cod nicely.

Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones and ensure the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.

How do I know when the cod is done?

The crust should be golden brown, and the cod should flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.

Zesty Lemon Dill Crusted Cod

Tender cod fillets with a zesty lemon and herb crust, offering a bright and crisp texture.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Created By Max Buddyfield

Recipe Category Supper Club Comforts

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type European

Recipe Yield 4 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences Low Carbohydrate

What You'll Need

Fish

01 4 skinless, boneless cod fillets (approximately 5.3 oz each)

Crust

01 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
02 Zest of 1 large lemon
03 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
04 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
05 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
06 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
08 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Serving

01 Lemon wedges

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 02

Prepare cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 03

Make breadcrumb mixture: In a medium bowl, combine breadcrumbs, lemon zest, dill, parsley, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated with oil and herbs.

Step 04

Apply crust: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly on top of each cod fillet to form an even crust.

Step 05

Bake cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 06

Serve: Serve the cod immediately accompanied by fresh lemon wedges.

Tools You'll Need

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Fine grater or zester
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Allergy Warnings

Review each ingredient carefully for allergens. If unsure, consult with a healthcare provider.
  • Contains fish (cod) and milk (Parmesan cheese).
  • Contains gluten from breadcrumbs.
  • For gluten-free preparation, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and verify Parmesan cheese suitability.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for general information only. Always consult a healthcare professional for dietary concerns.
  • Calorie Count: 270
  • Fat Content: 10 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 16 grams
  • Protein Content: 29 grams