Grilled Cod in Foil
This healthy Grilled Cod In Foil, with zesty lemon and garlic flavor, is the perfect summer dish.
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Since the 1600s cod was so plentiful and key for survival in Northeast America that Cape Cod even got its name from the bountiful codfish that swam nearby. Today Cape Cod is a dignified area, partly because of the Kennedys, but with a quaint and humble fishing town vibe, located on the peninsula of Massachusetts. I can tell you, firsthand, as I have visited several times, Cape Cod has the best seafood ever. Even as a kid (when fish was not my thing) I remember enjoying fish and chips at a small, homey restaurant right on the water.
Anyway, more about cod, less about me. Back in the day, the tender whitefish was plentiful, healthy, and easily preserved with salt, since refrigeration wouldn’t make its way into the scene until much more recent times. It was one of the first major exports of the New World and enjoyed by Catholics who abstain from eating meat periodically for religious observances.
Cod, a soft, mild fish, is commonly used for Fish and Chips and fish sticks. These dishes are widely produced and liked by those who are normally not fond of fish. Grilled cod in foil is another delicious way to enjoy it. Since the fish is so delicate it nicely absorbs the flavorful herbs and spices of garlic, oregano, and paprika, with a perfect citrus, lemony finish. It is a great vehicle for many other flavors like this bold Cajun Grilled Cod, also grilled in foil. When I was younger, cooking fish was so intimidating and I hated how the smell lingered in my house. To solve that problem we use foil packets and pop these guys on the grill (or in the oven) for a foolproof and super quick dinner.
Is Grilled Cod in Foil Healthy?
Grilled cod is high in protein and low in calories and carbs. Cod is a great source of omega-3, and B12 and contains other necessary vitamins and minerals. Also, since the cod is grilled in foil, only a small amount of oil is used. The fish is seasoned with garlic, herbs, and lemons, which add all the flavor and none of the fat.
The Magic of Grilling in Foil…
In this recipe, the moisture comes from the lemon, olive oil, and the cod itself. Wrapping it in foil allows the fish to retain its moisture and it protects if you are worried about possible carcinogens that appear from charring on the grill. I don’t know if you have ever attempted to throw a piece of delicate fish on the grill, but too often it gets stuck, breaks, or gets super charred before cooking thoroughly. So, to avoid the mess and to make a wonderfully juicy piece of cod, wrap it in foil before grilling instead!
INGREDIENTS
- 4 (6-ounce) cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat
Get the grill ready at medium-high heat.
Season
Prepare and season cod fillets with herbs and spices.
Grill
Cook in foil packets until flaky and tender.
Devour!
FAQs & Tips
Grilled cod in foil can be stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This works for leftovers and to make ahead! To make ahead, prepare as the recipe states and store in the fridge until ready to cook.
If my local fish market is out of cod I go for tilapia first. You can also get haddock or pollock for this recipe.
While you might get away with adding two fillets to one packet, I would keep it to one. Part of the appeal of this dish, IMO, is that it makes individual servings. It might cost you a bit more aluminum foil, but go ahead and make 8 separate packets to throw on the grill.
Serving Suggestions
Preparing grilled cod in foil is the perfect way to bring a lighter protein into your BBQ rotation. To complete the meal add some veggies to your grill with some traditional Corn On The Cob in Foil or try this delish Grilled Broccoli. Another classic side dish you can make is baked potato, fries, or crispy Cottage Fries. You could also make it a whole seafood feast and Grill Lobster Tail and these memorable Honey Lime Grilled Avocado Shrimp Nacho Bowls.
I make grilled fish often, but to add more flavor you can top it with homemade Pesto and add zoodles or shredded carrots before closing it up in the foil. You can add a splash of white wine into the packet too for a deeper flavor, and use the rest to make a White Wine Cocktail with Peaches and Figs.
Grilled Cod in Foil
Ingredients
- 4 6-ounce cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 lemon sliced into rounds
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F.
- Cut 4 sheets of foil, large enough to wrap each cod fillet individually.
- Brush each piece of cod with olive oil and season with garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place each fillet on a foil sheet and top with lemon slices.
- Seal the foil packets by bringing the edges together and folding them over, ensuring they are well sealed.
- Grill the foil packets for 10-15 minutes, or until cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Carefully open the foil packets, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
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