Easy Honey-Soy Glazed Cod: A Flavorful Weeknight Dinner Made Simple
Cod is a versatile, mild-flavored fish that effortlessly absorbs flavors, making it a perfect canvas for a sweet and savory glaze. The combination of honey and soy sauce creates a rich, glossy coating that enhances the natural taste of the fish while keeping it tender and moist. This Easy Honey-Soy Glazed Cod recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, date nights, or any occasion where you want a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Cooking cod this way is not only quick but also elegant. The glaze caramelizes slightly under high heat, giving the fish a beautiful golden finish and a deliciously sticky texture. Paired with simple sides, this dish offers a balance of flavors that satisfy both seafood lovers and picky eaters alike.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful cod, along with approximate calorie counts per serving:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cod fillets | 4 (6 oz each) | 400 |
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp | 30 |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | 120 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Fresh ginger (grated) | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Lime juice | 1 tbsp | 5 |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | 0 |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | 1 tsp | 15 |
| Green onions (chopped, optional) | 1 tbsp | 5 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper. - Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, olive oil, and lime juice until smooth. - Marinate the Cod
Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the baking dish and brush the glaze generously over each fillet. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes to enhance flavor. - Bake the Fish
Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Halfway through, brush with additional glaze to create a glossy finish. - Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the fillets before serving for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for a sweet-spicy version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Alternative Sweeteners: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey for a slightly different flavor.
- Pan-Seared Method: Cook fillets in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side for a crispy exterior.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro or parsley can enhance freshness and color.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~195 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
This recipe is high in protein, low in fat, and provides a balanced portion of carbohydrates, making it perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Easy Honey-Soy Glazed Cod pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa
- Stir-fried vegetables or roasted asparagus
- Light salads with sesame dressing
- Mashed sweet potatoes or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
A side of pickled vegetables or a fresh cucumber salad can add a refreshing crunch to complement the sweet and savory glaze.
Easy Honey-Soy Glazed Cod: A Flavorful Weeknight Dinner Made Simple
4
servings10
minutes12
minutes300
kcalIngredients
For the Cod:
4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
¼ tsp black pepper
For the Honey-Soy Glaze:
3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tbsp honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lime juice
Optional Garnish:
1 tsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp chopped green onions
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Heat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Glaze – Whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, olive oil, and lime juice in a small bowl.
- Marinate the Cod – Pat fillets dry and brush the glaze evenly over each fillet. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Bake the Cod – Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Brush with additional glaze halfway through for a glossy finish.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions over the fillets before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Marinating Enhances Flavor: Let the cod sit with the honey-soy glaze for 10–15 minutes before cooking. Longer marination isn’t needed due to the delicate texture of cod.
Prevent Sticking: Lightly grease the baking dish or line with parchment paper. Patting the fish dry before glazing helps it cook evenly and prevents sticking.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes! While cod works beautifully due to its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can also use halibut, tilapia, haddock, or even salmon. Adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.
2. Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the honey-soy glaze up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before brushing onto the fish.
3. How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the pan?
Line your baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Patting the fish dry before applying the glaze also helps prevent sticking.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
5. Can I pan-sear the cod instead of baking?
Definitely. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add a little oil, and cook the fillets for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Brush with glaze during cooking for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Easy Honey-Soy Glazed Cod proves that you can enjoy a flavorful, restaurant-quality seafood dish without complicated techniques or long cooking times. The combination of honey and soy sauce elevates the mild taste of cod into a rich, satisfying meal that is perfect for weeknights or special occasions. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and flexible serving options, this recipe is destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
