Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables

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Introduction

Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that combines tender cod fillets with a tangy honey mustard glaze. Paired with vibrant roasted vegetables, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The slight sweetness of honey balances the mustard’s tanginess, while the vegetables add texture and flavor, making this dish a complete meal that’s packed with protein and vitamins.

I remember the first time I made this for a cozy weeknight dinner. The honey mustard glaze filled the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, and the roasted vegetables added a burst of color to the plate. What’s great about this dish is how simple it is to prepare yet still feels elevated and special. The balance of flavors from the glaze perfectly complements the tender cod, and the roasted vegetables bring a satisfying crunch and heartiness to the meal.

This dish is not only quick to put together but also adaptable to your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you’re using carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes, the options are endless. It’s a wonderfully healthy and easy option for any day of the week, and it’s sure to impress with its combination of vibrant colors, flavors, and nutrients. Whether for a casual dinner or a more formal gathering, Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables is always a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Healthy meal prep
  • Light yet satisfying dinners
  • Family gatherings
  • Fish lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables will become a go-to in your kitchen:

  • Flavorful Glaze: The honey mustard glaze adds a unique, tangy-sweet flavor that perfectly complements the mild cod.
  • One-Pan Meal: The fish and vegetables cook together, making cleanup easy and ensuring the vegetables absorb all the delicious flavors from the cod.
  • Healthy and Light: Low in calories but packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
  • Versatile Vegetables: You can use your favorite vegetables, making it customizable and adaptable to what you have on hand.
  • Quick and Easy: The dish comes together quickly with minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy days.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables:

For the Cod & Vegetables:

  • 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped into chunks
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

For the Vegetables (Optional Seasoning):

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cod: A mild, flaky white fish that takes on the honey mustard flavor beautifully.
  • Honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the sharpness of the mustard.
  • Mustard (Dijon & Whole-Grain): Provides tang and depth to the glaze, with a bit of texture from the whole-grain mustard.
  • Olive Oil: Helps coat the vegetables and fish, ensuring they cook evenly and stay moist.
  • Vegetables: The choice of zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli adds color, texture, and nutrients, offering a hearty side without extra calories.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables:

Prepare the Honey Mustard Glaze:

  1. Mix the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Prepare the Vegetables:

  1. Season the Vegetables: On a large baking sheet, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli with olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer.

Prepare the Cod:

  1. Glaze the Cod: Place the cod fillets on top of the vegetables on the baking sheet. Spoon some of the honey mustard glaze over each cod fillet, reserving a little for later.

Bake the Cod & Vegetables:

  1. Bake at 400°F (200°C): Bake the fish and vegetables in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cod is cooked through (it should flake easily with a fork) and the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Finish and Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Drizzle the remaining honey mustard glaze over the fish. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve

  • With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of brown rice, white rice, or quinoa to make the meal even more filling.
  • With a Side Salad: Pair with a light green salad for added freshness and crunch.
  • Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a citrusy burst of flavor.
  • For Meal Prep: Divide into meal prep containers for an easy, healthy lunch or dinner for the week.

Additional Tips

  • Cod Substitutes: If you can’t find cod, try using other mild white fish like tilapia or haddock.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap the vegetables with others like sweet potatoes, carrots, or asparagus based on your preferences.
  • Glaze Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the glaze if you want a spicy kick.
  • Meal Prep: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Recipe Variations

  1. Honey Mustard Salmon & Vegetables: Swap cod for salmon for a richer, more flavorful option.
  2. Baked Honey Mustard Shrimp & Vegetables: Use shrimp instead of fish for a faster-cooking variation.
  3. Honey Mustard Baked Chicken & Vegetables: Try chicken breasts or thighs for a more hearty, protein-packed meal.
  4. Lemon-Honey Mustard Cod & Roasted Veggies: Add lemon zest to the glaze for extra citrusy brightness.
  5. Herbed Honey Mustard Cod & Roasted Root Vegetables: Use root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips for a heartier version.
  6. Honey Mustard Cod & Asparagus: Swap the vegetables for asparagus for a lighter, low-carb version.
  7. Honey Mustard Cod & Mediterranean Vegetables: Add Kalamata olives, red onions, and eggplant for a Mediterranean twist.
  8. Honey Mustard Cod & Brussels Sprouts: Roast Brussels sprouts along with the fish for a more autumn-inspired dish.
  9. Spicy Honey Mustard Cod: Add chili sauce or hot mustard for a spicy variation.
  10. Honey Mustard Cod & Roasted Cauliflower: Pair the fish with cauliflower for a low-carb, flavorful meal.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked cod and vegetables for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment

  • Baking sheet or roasting pan
  • Small mixing bowl for the glaze
  • Whisk

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use frozen cod? Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed before baking.
  2. Can I use a different glaze? Yes, you can swap the honey mustard for BBQ sauce or a garlic butter glaze.
  3. Can I add cheese to this dish? Yes, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before baking would be a nice addition.
  4. Can I make this dish spicy? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for some heat.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Prepare everything in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze pairs beautifully with tender cod, while the roasted vegetables add a delicious crunch and depth of flavor. This dish is as easy to make as it is satisfying, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to share with loved ones.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy option or simply craving a delicious, balanced meal, Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables hits the spot. It’s customizable, so feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the glaze to your taste!

I’d love to see how your Honey Mustard Baked Cod & Vegetables turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy your meal!

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