Description
Perfectly flaky and flavorful air fryer cod fillets seasoned with zesty lemon and aromatic spices. This quick and healthy seafood dinner comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a nutritious meal without the fuss.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 (6-oz) cod fillets
- 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 3/4 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). This ensures the cod cooks evenly and gets that perfect exterior while remaining tender inside. A properly preheated air fryer is essential for achieving the ideal texture.
- Prepare the Fish: Pat each cod fillet dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasonings adhere better to the fish and promotes better browning during cooking. Make sure to thoroughly dry both sides of each fillet.
- Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, stir together salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. Set aside. Combining the dry seasonings first ensures they’ll be evenly distributed over the fish for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Prepare the Lemon Oil: In a separate small bowl, stir together olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. This citrus-infused oil adds brightness and helps keep the fish moist during the air frying process.
- Season the Fillets: Brush each cod fillet with the olive oil/lemon mixture on both sides. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture on both sides and pat gently so it sticks to the fish. This careful application ensures maximum flavor and helps create a delicious crust.
- Cook the Cod: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the cod in the air fryer basket (do not crowd the basket, cook in batches if necessary). Cook for 8-10 minutes, until golden brown on top and the internal temperature reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C) in the center of the largest fillet.
Notes
- For best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
- If using frozen cod, thaw completely before cooking and pat dry very well.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For a richer flavor, you can add 1 tablespoon of butter to the lemon-oil mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet (6 oz)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 62mg
