Summary: Baked cod with vegetables is one of the most complete dishes in Spanish cuisine: protein, vegetables, and good fats in one pan. The key is the cooking order — vegetables need more time than cod — and choosing vegetables that complement without overpowering the fish's flavor.
Ingredients for 4 people
- 4 desalinated 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
- Sweet paprika, salt, pepper, thyme
The cooking order: why it matters
Vegetables (potatoes, onion, bell peppers) need 30-35 minutes at 200°C. Cod needs 15-20 minutes at 180°C. If you bake them together from the start, the cod will be dry. The solution: pre-cook the vegetables 15-20 minutes before adding the cod.
Step-by-step recipe
- Preheat to 200°C. Cut all vegetables into similar pieces (3-4 cm).
- Mix vegetables with EVOO, salt, paprika, and garlic. Spread on a baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Lower temperature to 180°C. Place the cod over the vegetables. Drizzle with EVOO and thyme.
- Bake for 15-18 more minutes. The cod is ready when the flakes separate easily.
- Let rest for 3 minutes and serve directly from the baking sheet.
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 — Desalinated cod loins
Loins and portions of cod already desalinated. Perfect for oven baking with vegetables.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I add olives to the baking sheet?
Yes, add olives in the last 5 minutes so they warm through but don't become bitter. Black olives pair particularly 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 desalinated.
Can it be prepared the night before?
Pre-cooked vegetables, yes. The cod should be baked on the day of consumption to ensure it remains juicy.
See: Baked cod with lemon | Cod stew
