Zesty Lemon Dill Crusted Cod

Featured in: Fresh & Light Meals

This dish features cod fillets topped with a zesty crust made from lemon zest, fresh dill, parsley, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs. The crust adds a crispy texture and bright herbal notes that complement the tender fish. Baked until golden, it’s a quick and flavorful option that brings freshness and crunch to your plate. Serve with lemon wedges and pair it with steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes for a balanced meal.

Updated on Sun, 16 Nov 2025 10:56:00 GMT
Golden, crispy Zesty Lemon & Dill Crusted Cod topped with fresh herbs, ready to serve with lemon. Save
Golden, crispy Zesty Lemon & Dill Crusted Cod topped with fresh herbs, ready to serve with lemon. | tastyeffect.com

A vibrant flavorful cod dish featuring a crispy lemon and dill crust this recipe is perfect for a refreshing and healthy dinner night at home. Zesty citrus and fresh herbs elevate mild cod making it satisfying but light.

I first made this dish as a midweek dinner when I wanted something light yet full of flavor. The crispy crust always impresses guests and is a favorite in my home.

Ingredients

  • Cod fillets: 4 pieces about 150 g each skinless and boneless
  • Fresh breadcrumbs: 1 cup
  • Lemon zest: Zest of 1 large lemon
  • Fresh dill: 2 tbsp finely chopped or 1 tbsp dried dill
  • Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp finely chopped
  • Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp grated
  • Olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Sea salt: 1/2 tsp
  • Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
  • Lemon wedges: For serving

Instructions

Preheat Oven:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Prep Cod:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Make Crust Mixture:
In a medium bowl combine breadcrumbs lemon zest dill parsley Parmesan olive oil salt and pepper. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
Crust the Cod:
Press the breadcrumb mixture evenly onto the top of each cod fillet gently pressing to adhere.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cod flakes easily with a fork.
Serve:
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
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| tastyeffect.com

This vibrant cod is always a hit at family dinners—my kids especially love the crunchy crust and bright lemon flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with steamed green beans roasted potatoes or a light salad to keep the meal balanced and healthy.

Allergen Information

Contains fish and milk due to Parmesan cheese. Contains gluten from breadcrumbs. Substitute as needed for dietary needs always checking ingredient labels.

Nutrition

Each serving provides 270 calories 10 g total fat 16 g carbohydrates and 29 g protein.

This image shows flaky, perfectly baked Zesty Lemon & Dill Crusted Cod, lightly crisped on top. Save
This image shows flaky, perfectly baked Zesty Lemon & Dill Crusted Cod, lightly crisped on top. | tastyeffect.com

This lemon & dill cod is ideal for impressing family or guests on busy weeknights with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Recipe FAQ

What type of fish works best for this crusted dish?

Skinless, boneless cod fillets are ideal due to their flaky texture, but haddock or pollock can be used as alternatives.

How can I achieve a crispier crust?

Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones and pressing the crust firmly onto the fish helps create extra crunchiness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the crusted fillets and refrigerate them for a short time before baking, but it’s best served freshly cooked for optimal texture.

What sides complement this lemon and dill cod?

Steamed green beans, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad pair well, balancing the zesty flavors and crispy texture.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones and confirm that Parmesan cheese is gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.

Zesty Lemon Dill Crusted Cod

Flavorful cod topped with a crisp lemon and dill crust, ideal for a light and healthy dinner.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
20 min
Complete duration
35 min
Created by Jane Miller


Skill level Easy

Heritage European

Output 4 Portions

Dietary requirements Low-Carbohydrate

Components

Fish

01 4 skinless, boneless cod fillets (approximately 5.3 oz each)

Crust

01 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
02 Zest of 1 large lemon
03 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
04 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
05 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
06 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
08 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Serving

01 Lemon wedges

Directions

Phase 01

Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

Phase 02

Prepare Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels and arrange them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Phase 03

Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, lemon zest, dill, parsley, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper; mix thoroughly until the breadcrumbs are uniformly coated.

Phase 04

Apply Crust: Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the top surface of each cod fillet to form a crust.

Phase 05

Bake Cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Phase 06

Serve: Serve immediately accompanied by fresh lemon wedges.

Necessary tools

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Fine grater or zester
  • Knife and chopping board
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional healthcare advice if uncertain.
  • Contains fish (cod) and dairy (Parmesan cheese). Contains gluten (breadcrumbs). For gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and verify Parmesan.

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are approximate guides only and shouldn't replace professional medical consultation.
  • Energy: 270
  • Fats: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Proteins: 29 g