• 4 Cod Fillets (6 ounces or 170g each): The star of the show. Look for thick, center-cut cod fillets, as they will cook more evenly and remain wonderfully moist. Both fresh and frozen cod work well. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted very dry. Cod is chosen for its mild, clean flavor and its beautiful large flakes when cooked, making it a perfect canvas for the other ingredients.
• 1 large head of Broccoli (about 1.5 lbs or 680g): This hardy vegetable is perfect for roasting. When cut into bite-sized florets, it becomes tender on the inside with delightfully crispy, slightly charred edges in the high heat of the oven. Its earthy flavor is a wonderful counterbalance to the delicate fish.
• 4 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided: A good quality olive oil is essential. It helps the broccoli and cod to roast rather than steam, promotes browning, and adds its own subtle, fruity flavor. We use it to coat both the broccoli and the fish, ensuring everything is well-lubricated for cooking.
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic provides a pungent, aromatic base that infuses the entire dish. Its flavor mellows and sweetens as it roasts, complementing both the cod and the broccoli without overpowering them.
• 1 large Lemon: We use the entire lemon in this recipe. The zest provides an intense, fragrant citrus oil that brightens the dish, while the juice adds a fresh, acidic tang that cuts through the richness of the oil and highlights the clean flavor of the cod. Half will be sliced and roasted with the dish, the other half reserved for squeezing over the finished meal.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: This adds a touch of Mediterranean, peppery warmth that pairs beautifully with lemon and garlic. It’s a simple herb that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little bit of warmth. This is completely optional but adds a gentle background heat that makes the flavors pop.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste: These are fundamental flavor enhancers. Seasoning both the broccoli and the cod properly is key to a delicious final product.
