Baked Chili-Lime Cod with Avocado Salsa

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Prepare the Cod:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Allow the oven to fully come up to temperature so the cod cooks evenly and develops a lightly roasted exterior. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier, then place the cod fillets on the prepared sheet in a single layer with a little space between each piece. 🐟🔥

Make the Chili-Lime Marinade:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, lime juice, lime zest, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until the spices are evenly dispersed and the mixture looks smooth and slightly thick. This marinade will coat the cod and infuse it with flavor as it bakes. 🌶️🍋🫒
2. Brush the mixture evenly over the cod fillets, making sure to cover the tops and sides so each piece is fully seasoned. Use all of the marinade for maximum flavor, and lightly press it onto the surface so it adheres well.

Bake the Cod:

1. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. 🔥 Check for doneness by gently inserting a fork into the thickest part of a fillet and twisting slightly; the flesh should be opaque and separate into moist flakes without resistance. Avoid overbaking, as cod can dry out if left in the oven too long.

Prepare the Avocado Salsa:

1. While the cod bakes, prepare the avocado salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocado, diced tomato, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. 🥑🍅🌿
2. Mix gently to combine, lifting and folding rather than mashing to keep the avocado pieces intact. The salsa should look vibrant and chunky, with each ingredient visible. Taste and adjust seasoning with a little more salt or lime juice if desired, keeping the flavors bright and fresh.

Serve:

1. Once the cod is cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the fillets rest for a minute or two so the juices settle slightly.
2. Plate the baked cod, placing one fillet on each serving plate. Top each piece with a generous spoonful of avocado salsa, letting some of the juices run over the fish. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra squeeze of citrus just before eating. 🍋

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