Baked Lemon Herb Cod with Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
 - 2 tbsp olive oil
 - 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
 - 1 tsp dried dill (or 1 tbsp fresh)
 - 1/2 tsp paprika
 - Salt and pepper to taste
 - Lemon slices for garnish
 
For the Sweet Potatoes:
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
 - 3 tbsp butter
 - 1/4 cup milk or cream
 - 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
 - 1/4 tsp cinnamon
 - Salt to taste
 
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Start the sweet potatoes: Place cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender.
 - Prep the fish: While potatoes cook, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
 - Season the cod: Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place on prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, paprika, salt, and pepper.
 - Coat and bake: Brush the seasoning mixture generously over each fillet. Top with lemon slices. Bake for 12–15 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
 - Mash the sweet potatoes: Drain potatoes and return to pot. Add butter, milk, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Mash until completely smooth and creamy. For ultra-smooth texture, use a hand mixer!
 - Plate beautifully: Create a bed of mashed sweet potatoes on each plate. Gently place a cod fillet on top. Drizzle with any pan juices.
 - Serve fresh: Garnish with extra fresh dill and lemon wedges if desired.
 
Chef’s Notes:
- Cod is naturally tender and flaky—perfect for seniors! Halibut or tilapia work too.
 - Don’t overcook the fish—it should be just opaque and moist.
 - Add roasted garlic to sweet potatoes for extra flavor depth.
 - Steam some soft green beans on the side for a complete meal.
 - Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene and vitamin A!
 
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 365
 - Protein: 34g
 - Carbohydrates: 38g
 - Fat: 9g
 - Fiber: 6g
 - Omega-3s: 500mg
 - Vitamin A: 340% DV
 






