Zesty lemon, herbaceous oregano, and a hint of garlic make this simple, healthy Grilled Cod In Foil a perfect weeknight dinner.
Since the 1600s, cod has been so plentiful and key to survival in Northeast America that Cape Cod even got its name from the fish. Today, Cape Cod is a dignified area, partly because of the Kennedys, but with a quaint and humble fishing town vibe. I can tell you, firsthand, that Cape Cod has the best seafood ever, as I’ve visited several times. Even as a kid (when fish was not my thing), I remember enjoying fish and chips at a small, homey restaurant right on the water.
Anyway, more about cod, less about me. Back in the day, the tender whitefish was plentiful, healthy, and easily preserved with salt, since refrigeration wouldn’t make its way into the scene until much more recent times. It was one of the first major exports of the New World and was enjoyed by Catholics who abstained from eating meat periodically for religious observances.
Cod, a soft, mild fish, is commonly used for fish fries, sandwiches, and more. When I was younger, cooking fish was so intimidating, and I hated how the smell lingered in my house. To solve that problem, we use foil packets and pop these guys on the grill (or in the oven) for a foolproof and super quick dinner. Grilled cod in foil is such a delicious way to cook it. Since the fish is so delicate, it absorbs the flavorful herbs and spices of garlic, oregano, and paprika. Lemon gives it the perfect citrus finish. Give this recipe a try!
Is Grilled Cod In Foil Healthy?
Grilled cod is definitely a healthy pick for many diets. For one thing, the fish itself is a high-protein, low-calorie food. Cod is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, as well as other essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, grilling the cod in foil means you only need a small amount of oil—most of the flavor comes from the herbs, garlic, and lemon.
The Magic of Grilling In Foil
In this recipe, the moisture comes from the lemon, olive oil, and the cod itself. Wrapping the cod in foil allows the fish to retain its moisture, and it protects it from the carcinogens that may occur from charring on the grill.
I don’t know if you have ever attempted to throw a piece of delicate fish on the grill, but too often it gets stuck, breaks, or gets super charred before cooking thoroughly. Avoid the mess and make a wonderfully juicy piece of cod by wrapping it in foil before grilling instead!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Grilled cod in foil can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This works well for leftovers and makes a great make-ahead dish!
Serving Suggestions
Preparing grilled cod in foil is the perfect way to bring a lighter protein into your BBQ rotation. To complete the meal, add some veggies to your grill with some traditional Corn On The Cob In Foil or try this delish Grilled Broccoli. Another classic side dish you can make is Baked Potatoes In Foil, Homemade French Fries, or crispy Cottage Fries. Or make it a whole seafood feast with some grilled lobster tail and Honey-Lime Grilled Avocado Shrimp Nacho Bowls.
To add more flavor, you top your grilled cod with homemade pesto and add zoodles or shredded carrots before closing the foil. You can also add a splash of white wine to the packet for a deeper flavor, and use the remaining liquid to make a White Wine Cocktail With Peaches And Figs.
Ingredients
- 4 6-ounce cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 lemon sliced into rounds
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F.
- Cut 4 sheets of foil, large enough to wrap each cod fillet individually.
- Brush each piece of cod with olive oil and season with garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place each fillet on a foil sheet and top with lemon slices.
- Seal the foil packets by bringing the edges together and folding them over, ensuring they are well sealed.
- Grill the foil packets for 10-15 minutes, or until cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Carefully open the foil packets, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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