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Baked Lemon Garlic Haddock

  • Author: Sarah

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Haddock Fillets: 4 (about 6 ounces each), fresh or frozen (thawed), providing a mild, flaky white fish base.
  • Lemons: 2, one for juice and one for slices, adding bright, citrusy flavor and aroma.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, contributing a pungent, savory depth to the dish.
  • Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, extra virgin, helping to keep the fish moist and add richness, also aids in browning.
  • Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a fresh, herbaceous garnish and subtle flavor.
  • Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon, adding a warm, slightly peppery Mediterranean note.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste, enhancing the flavors of all ingredients.
  • Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground, providing a mild spice and balancing the flavors.
  • Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (or to taste), for a hint of heat if desired.

Notes

  1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking fish, ensuring it cooks through without drying out too quickly. While the oven is preheating, lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. A 9×13 inch baking dish works perfectly for four haddock fillets, providing enough space for even cooking. Greasing the dish prevents the haddock from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  2. Prepare the Lemon Garlic Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice (from one lemon), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. If you desire a little heat, add the red pepper flakes at this stage. This marinade is the heart of the flavor for the haddock. Ensure the garlic is finely minced to release its full aroma and flavor. Fresh lemon juice is crucial for the bright citrus notes that complement the fish beautifully. The oregano adds a subtle earthy depth that ties everything together. Whisk all ingredients thoroughly to combine them into a homogenous marinade.
  3. Prepare the Haddock Fillets: Pat the haddock fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important because removing excess moisture from the surface of the fish allows the marinade to adhere better and helps the haddock to brown slightly during baking. Place the dried haddock fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they are not overlapping, which can lead to uneven cooking.
  4. Marinate the Haddock: Pour the lemon garlic marinade evenly over the haddock fillets, ensuring each fillet is nicely coated. Use your hands or a spoon to gently rub the marinade into the fish, making sure it penetrates all sides. Allow the haddock to marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor. Marinating time allows the flavors to infuse into the fish, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final dish. If marinating for longer than 10 minutes, refrigerate the fish and bring it to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking for even cooking.
  5. Add Lemon Slices: Thinly slice the remaining lemon. Arrange the lemon slices over and around the haddock fillets in the baking dish. The lemon slices not only add extra flavor but also help to keep the fish moist as it bakes. As the lemon slices bake, they will caramelize slightly and release their fragrant oils, further enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
  6. Bake the Haddock: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the haddock is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Baking time can vary depending on the thickness of the haddock fillets. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark. The haddock is done when it turns opaque and the flesh easily separates into flakes when gently poked with a fork. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the fish dry. If your fillets are particularly thick, they might need a few extra minutes.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Once the haddock is cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the baked haddock. The fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and a final burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately while hot. The aroma of lemon, garlic, and parsley will be incredibly inviting at this point. Serve the baked lemon garlic haddock with your favorite sides (suggestions in the “How to Serve” section below) and enjoy!

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 250
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Protein: 35g

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