Pat cod dry with paper towels
Season cod with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder or paprika
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high
Oven option: place cod on a lined baking sheet
Oven option: drizzle with olive oil or dot with butter
Oven option: bake 10–14 minutes, until it flakes easily and reaches 145°F (63°C)
Skillet option: heat olive oil in a skillet
Skillet option: cook cod 3–4 minutes per side, until it flakes easily and reaches 145°F (63°C)
Make sure cod is opaque and separates into flakes
Serve immediately with lemon juice and optional herbs