Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Flaky : The air fryer creates a golden crust while keeping the inside moist and tender.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 15 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Healthy Option : No need for excess oil; the air fryer uses minimal fat for maximum flavor.
- Customizable : Add your favorite spices, marinades, or sauces to make it your own.
- Kid-Friendly : Cod’s mild flavor makes it appealing even to picky eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 2–4
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), patted dry
- 1–2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for extra richness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika for a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp lemon zest (optional but recommended)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley , chopped
- Lemon wedges , for serving
- Tartar sauce or aioli , for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. This ensures the cod starts cooking immediately for a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for achieving crispiness.
- Brush both sides of the fillets lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.