Description
Looking for a Simple Fish Dinner Recipes that’s fast, healthy, and full of flavor? This Ginger Soy Cod is a winner. Tender cod fillets soak up a sweet-savory mix of soy, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey or maple syrup, then get cooked to perfection—either baked or pan-seared. Perfect for Seafood Dinner Healthy nights, busy weeknights, or any time you want a clean, satisfying meal, this recipe comes together in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1½ teaspoons freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickened sauce)
- Green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
- Optional: red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick
- Pro tip: You can swap cod with halibut, tilapia, or snapper without losing flavor.
Instructions
- Whip Up the Marinade
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or maple), rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. This quick blend is what gives the fish its signature sweet-and-savory punch.
- Marinate the Fish
- Place the cod fillets in a shallow dish or resealable bag, pour the marinade over them, and let them sit for 15–30 minutes. Don’t skip this step—cod soaks up flavor fast, but don’t overdo it!
- Cook Your Cod
- Baking method: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lay the fillets on a parchment-lined baking dish and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Pan-searing method: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each fillet 3–4 minutes per side, spooning extra marinade over the fish while cooking for that glossy, flavorful finish.
- Optional Thickened Sauce
- Pour any leftover marinade into a small saucepan. Whisk in the cornstarch mixed with water and simmer 1–2 minutes until it thickens into a luscious glaze.
- Serve & Garnish
- Drizzle the thickened sauce over the cod, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, and plate with rice, steamed vegetables, or roasted sweet potatoes.
Notes
- Whole30 or paleo version: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos and skip the honey/maple.
- Add some heat: Stir in sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Watch your marinating time: Cod is delicate, so 15–30 minutes is all it needs.
- Leftovers love: Flake the cooked cod for rice bowls, salads, or fish tacos the next day.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal