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Air Fryer Cod with Lemon and Garlic

This dish features fresh cod fillets seasoned with lemon zest and garlic, cooked in an air fryer to achieve a crisp exterior and tender interior. The cooking method preserves the fish’s delicate texture while providing a lightly golden, flaky appearance with a fragrant citrus aroma.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 fillets fresh cod fillets skinless or skin-on, according to preference
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest preferably from fresh lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing the fish
  • to taste salt preferably sea salt
  • to taste black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Cooking brush

Method
 

  1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crisp crust.
  2. In a small bowl, mix lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful seasoning paste.
  3. Use a cooking brush to lightly coat each fillet with olive oil, which helps the seasoning adhere and promotes browning.
  4. Spread the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of each fillet, pressing lightly to ensure good coverage.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment.
  6. Place the seasoned cod fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping to allow proper air circulation.
  7. Cook the fillets at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the fillets are opaque, flaky, and lightly golden on the outside.
  8. Carefully remove the fish from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute to settle the juices.
  9. Serve the cod fillets immediately, garnished with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if desired.