Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Lightly oil your baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a good sear and even baking. Place them in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly.
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried thyme, and a tablespoon of olive oil. Stir until the herbs and garlic are evenly coated with oil, creating a fragrant herb mixture.
Spread the herb mixture evenly over the top of each fish fillet, pressing lightly to adhere. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets for a bright, tangy flavor.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the fillets, ensuring they are lightly coated and shiny. Place thin lemon slices on top for extra aroma and visual appeal.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes. The fish should turn opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork, with a slight golden hue around the edges.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes. The aroma of lemon and herbs should fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s ready to serve.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon zest if desired, then serve immediately with your favorite sides for a light, elegant meal.
