Summary: Baked cod with vegetables in a tray is one of the most complete dishes in Spanish cuisine: protein, vegetables, and good fats in a single dish. The key is the cooking order — vegetables need more time than cod — and choosing vegetables that complement without overpowering the fish's flavor.
Contents
Ingredients for 4 people
- 4 desalted cod loins (150g each)
- 2 bell peppers (red and green)
- 1 large onion
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 2 medium potatoes
- 4 cloves garlic
- 6 tablespoons EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
- Sweet paprika, salt, pepper, thyme
The order of cooking: why it matters
Vegetables (potatoes, onion, bell peppers) need 30-35 minutes at 200°C (392°F). Cod needs 15-20 minutes at 180°C (356°F). If you bake them together from the start, the cod will turn out dry. The solution: pre-cook the vegetables 15-20 minutes before adding the cod.
Step-by-step recipe
- Preheat to 200°C (392°F). Cut all vegetables into similar pieces (3-4 cm / 1.2-1.6 inches).
- Mix vegetables with EVOO, salt, paprika, and garlic. Spread on a baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Lower temperature to 180°C (356°F). Place the cod over the vegetables. Drizzle with EVOO and sprinkle with thyme.
- Bake for another 15-18 minutes. The cod is ready when the flakes separate easily.
- Let rest for 3 minutes and serve directly from the tray.
Vegetables and pre-cooking times
| Vegetable | Pre-cooking before cod | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Potato | 25-30 min | Tender, absorbs juices |
| Onion | 20-25 min | Caramelized, sweet |
| Bell pepper | 20 min | Roasted, juicy |
| Cherry tomato | 10-15 min | Confit, sweet |
| Zucchini | 10 min | Tender, doesn't fall apart |
Bacalalo — Desalted cod loins
Desalted cod loins and portions. Perfect for baking in the oven with vegetables.
View products →Frequently asked questions
Can I add olives to the tray?
Yes, add olives in the last 5 minutes so they heat up but don't become bitter. Black olives pair especially well with cod.
Can this be made with fresh cod?
Yes. Fresh cod has a milder flavor. Reduce baking time to 12-15 minutes — fresh cod cooks faster than desalted.
Can it be prepared the night before?
The pre-cooked vegetables, yes. The cod should be baked on the day of consumption to keep it juicy.
See: Baked cod with lemon | Cod stew
