Ingredients
For the fish:
- 2 cod fillets, about 150–200 g each
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For seasoning (classic and balanced):
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne for mild heat
Optional finishing additions:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped
- Extra drizzle of olive oil or melted butter
Before You Start (Important but Often Skipped)
- Dry the cod thoroughly.
Use paper towels and press gently on both sides. Cod holds a lot of surface moisture, and drying it is the difference between steamed fish and crisp-edged fish. - Let the fish rest at room temperature for 10 minutes.
This helps it cook more evenly in the air fryer. - Check for bones.
Run your fingers lightly over the fillet and remove any pin bones with tweezers.
Seasoning the Cod
- Place the cod fillets on a plate or cutting board.
- Brush both sides lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix all the seasoning ingredients evenly.
- Sprinkle the seasoning over both sides of the fish, pressing gently so it adheres without rubbing off.
Tip: Cod is mild. Do not be shy with seasoning, but also don’t bury it. You should still see the fish through the spices.
Preheating the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Preheating is essential for proper texture. Starting cold leads to uneven cooking.
Cooking the Cod
- Lightly oil the air fryer basket or line it with perforated parchment paper.
- Place the cod fillets in the basket in a single layer.
- Do not overlap.
- Leave space around each fillet for air circulation.
- Cook at 200°C (390°F) for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness.
Thickness guide:
- Thin fillets (about 2 cm): 8 minutes
- Medium fillets (2.5–3 cm): 9 minutes
- Thick fillets (over 3 cm): 10 minutes
No flipping is required, but you may flip gently at the halfway mark if your air fryer has uneven heat.
How to Know When Cod Is Perfectly Done
The cod is ready when:
- The flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F).
- The surface looks lightly golden, not dry or cracked.
If unsure, check early. Cod overcooks fast and continues cooking slightly after removal.
Resting the Fish
Remove the cod from the air fryer and let it rest on a plate for 2 minutes.
This short rest:
- Locks in moisture
- Prevents the fillet from breaking apart
- Improves flavor
Finishing Touches
After resting:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
- Add chopped herbs if using.
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter for extra richness.
Serving Ideas
This cod pairs well with:
- Air-fried potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli
- Rice, couscous, or quinoa
- A simple yogurt or tartar-style sauce
For a lighter meal, serve it over a salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Storage and Reheating
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheating:
- Air fryer at 180°C (355°F) for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Do not microwave unless absolutely necessary; it toughens the fish.
