There is nothing quite like tender, flaky fish that’s bursting with fresh flavors, and this Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe delivers just that with delightful ease. Combining the bright zing of lemon, the herbal freshness of parsley, and a perfectly crisped exterior thanks to the air fryer, this dish is a vibrant yet simple way to enjoy cod. Whether you’re a weeknight dinner hero or a weekend cook looking to impress, this recipe promises juicy, flavorful cod that feels special without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is, yet each component plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s balanced in flavor, has a lovely texture, and looks inviting on the plate. With just a few pantry staples and fresh additions, you’ll bring this recipe to life.
- Cod fillets: Fresh or thawed fillets provide a mild, flaky base perfect for absorbing the seasoning.
- Olive oil: A light coating helps the seasonings stick and ensures a golden finish when cooked.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors in the fish.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth without overpowering the delicate cod.
- Paprika: Brings a touch of warmth and a hint of smoky sweetness to the seasoning mix.
- Ground black pepper: For a gentle bite and aroma.
- Lemon juice: Adds bright acidity that elevates the dish and balances the richness.
- Fresh parsley: The final garnish that rewards each bite with a fresh, herbal note.
- Lemon wedges: Perfect for anyone who loves an extra citrus kick at the table.
How to Make Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the fillets
Start by giving your cod fillets a gentle brush with olive oil on all sides. This isn’t just about adding fat; it creates a barrier to lock in moisture and provides a slightly crispy texture when air fried. Plus, it makes the seasoning stick like a charm.
Step 2: Season the fillets
Mix together salt, garlic powder, paprika, and ground black pepper. Sprinkling this evenly over the cod ensures every piece is bursting with flavor. Don’t be shy here—this spice combination complements the cod’s mildness, giving each bite a perfect pop.
Step 3: Preheat the air fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and let it warm up. Preheating is a crucial step because it means your cod will start cooking immediately, locking in that fresh flavor and creating a lovely crust.
Step 4: Cook the first batch
Place two fillets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have space for air circulation. Cook them for 5 minutes, then pause to drizzle a teaspoon of lemon juice over each. The acidity brightens the fish and enhances the seasonings. Continue cooking for 3 to 5 minutes or until the fish flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Step 5: Cook the remaining fillets
Repeat the same cooking process with the remaining fillets. Cooking in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures each fillet cooks evenly with that irresistible crispy edge.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Once all your cod fillets are perfectly cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. This simple garnish adds a burst of color and fresh herbal flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for anyone wanting a little extra citrus punch.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped parsley is your star garnish here, but you can also add thin slices of lemon zest for an extra fragrant boost. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving can add a subtle richness that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides. Think garlic roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. These choices complement the cod without overwhelming its delicate flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of flair, serve the cod fillets over a bed of herbed couscous or with a vibrant quinoa salad studded with cherry tomatoes and cucumber. Serving on rustic wooden boards or white plates garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges also makes for a stunning presentation that invites your guests to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two days. Be sure to cool the fish to room temperature before storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
While freshly cooked cod is best enjoyed right away, you can freeze cooked fillets for up to one month. Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, use your air fryer at a lower temperature (around 300°F) for 3 to 5 minutes to preserve moisture and flavor without drying out the fish. Alternatively, a quick warm-up in the oven wrapped loosely in foil works well too.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the fillets completely before air frying to ensure even cooking and to achieve that perfect flaky texture.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating the air fryer helps the cod cook evenly and creates a delicate crispy exterior. It’s a little step that makes a big difference in quality.
Can I substitute parsley with other herbs?
Yes, fresh dill or cilantro can also work beautifully as a garnish, adding different flavor profiles while still complementing the lemon and cod.
What can I use instead of lemon juice?
If you don’t have lemon juice, a splash of white wine vinegar or lime juice can add similar brightness to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It’s quick, easy to make in batches, and pairs well with many meal prep-friendly sides like rice or roasted veggies for delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe will quickly become a favorite in your recipe arsenal. It’s simple, fresh, and packed with flavor, perfect for busy nights or impressing family and friends with a healthy, fuss-free meal. Give it a try, and you might just find your new go-to seafood dish!
Print
Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Parsley is a quick, healthy, and flavorful seafood recipe. Perfectly cooked cod fillets are lightly coated with olive oil and a blend of spices, air fried to a crispy finish, then topped with fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish. Ready in just 18 minutes, this dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets
Seasoning
- 4 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 teaspoons lemon juice
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the fillets: Brush each cod fillet all over with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. This light coating helps the seasonings adhere properly and ensures a crispy texture when cooked.
- Season the fillets: In a small bowl, mix together salt, garlic powder, paprika, and ground black pepper. Evenly sprinkle this seasoning blend over all the cod fillets to infuse the fish with robust flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to preheat. This step promotes even cooking and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Cook the first batch: Place two cod fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are spaced to allow for good air circulation. Cook for 5 minutes, then open the basket and drizzle 1 teaspoon of lemon juice over each fillet. Continue cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cooked fillets and set aside.
- Cook the remaining fillets: Repeat the previous step with the other two fillets, maintaining spacing in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Garnish and serve: Once all fillets are cooked, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over each. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to enhance the fresh, zesty flavors.
Notes
- Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for even cooking and a crispy finish.
- Adjust cooking time according to the thickness of your cod fillets and air fryer model.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F to guarantee the fish is safely cooked.
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges add bright flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
