Provence Lemon Baked Cod

I'm always on the lookout for new seafood recipes. 

After living in the Pacific Northwest for several years, 

our love of tasty delights from the sea grew exponentially. 

But before you say, "I don't like fish," read on for just a minute. 

I'm a firm believer that more people would like fish if they were more careful about buying FRESH. There is a HUGE difference. There's nothing quite like fresh from the ocean seafood, but us landlocked diners have to exercise a little savvy before making our seafood purchase.

I ALWAYS ask the meat guy how long the fish has been in the meat department display case. If it's more than today, ask if they have any in the back that is fresher. Then I ask to smell the fish.  Yes, I actually do, and they are quite happy to oblige.  

Fish shouldn't smell fishy, it should smell... fresh! 

I prefer fish that hasn't been frozen, freezing changes the texture of the fish. (You really owe it to yourself to taste fresh halibut someday... it simply melts in your mouth.) Again, since we're landlocked, I cave in on occasion and buy pre-frozen if I don't have the choice.  I've actually found that I can't go wrong by purchasing seafood from Costco. Check the date and select the freshest. Then plan on serving your choice within a day or two. I've never been disapointed.

Here's my favorite recipe for cod:

 Provence Lemon Baked Cod

2  lbs cod fillets
6 Tbs butter  melted
1/4 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
Dash or two of  pepper
2 Tbs Herbes de Provence (adds a bit of heaven)
2 Tbs chopped Parsley (fresh if you have it or dried)
Paprika

1. Cut cod into serving size pieces.
2. Mix butter and lemon juice.
3. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, Herbs de Provence, parsley and pepper.
4. Dip cod into butter mixture; then coat with flour mixture.
5. Place cod in ungreased baking dish, 9x13x2 inches.
6. Pour remaining butter mixture over fish; sprinkle with paprika.
7. Cook uncovered in 350 degree oven until fish flakes easily with fork, 25-30 minutes.

Garnish with parsley sprigs and lemon slices if desired.

  
Up next...  MARGHERITA STYLE Homemade Pizza... delicioso!