Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) or heat a skillet over medium-high
Pat cod dry with paper towels
Season both sides with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder, paprika, or lemon zest
Optional: coat lightly with olive oil or melted butter
Bake method
Place cod on a parchment-lined baking sheet
Bake 10–14 minutes, or until the thickest part flakes easily with a fork
Optional: add lemon slices and a drizzle of olive oil or butter before baking
Rest 1–2 minutes, then serve
Pan-sear method
Add 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or butter to a hot skillet
Place cod in the pan and cook 3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness
Cook until it flakes easily and is opaque in the center
Optional: baste with butter and add lemon juice in the last minute
Poach method
Add enough water, milk, or broth to cover cod in a shallow pan
Bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil)
Add cod and poach 6–10 minutes, or until opaque and flakes easily
Remove carefully and drain
Steam method
Season cod and place in a steamer basket
Steam 6–10 minutes, or until opaque and flakes easily
Optional: steam over broth or add herbs to the liquid
Air fryer method
Preheat to 400°F (205°C)
Lightly oil the cod or use a light coating
Cook 8–12 minutes, or until it flakes easily
Check at 8 minutes for thinner fillets
Serving ideas
Finish with lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil
Pair with roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad
Optional sauces: butter-lemon, garlic herb, or tomato-based sauce