Ina Garten Cod With Mustard Sauce

Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce is a simple yet sophisticated seafood dish that highlights the tender, flaky texture of cod paired with a creamy, tangy mustard sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare but feels special enough for a dinner party—or an elevated weeknight meal.

With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this Barefoot Contessa classic offers a refreshing change from heavier fish recipes.

What Is Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce?

In this dish, fresh cod fillets are baked until just flaky, then served with a luscious mustard sauce made from Dijon mustard, crème fraîche, and fresh herbs. The combination is light, slightly tangy, and perfectly balanced, showcasing the delicate flavor of the fish.

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce

• Ready in under 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights
• Elegant yet easy – Restaurant-quality with little effort
• Flavor-packed – Creamy, sharp mustard sauce complements the mild cod
• Light and healthy – High in protein, lower in fat
• Customizable – Works with other white fish like halibut or haddock
• Pairs beautifully with sides – Rice, roasted vegetables, or simple greens
• Minimal cleanup – One baking dish and one small saucepan

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce

For the cod:

• 4 (6-ounce) fresh cod fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the mustard sauce:

• ½ cup crème fraîche (or substitute with sour cream)
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a baking dish large enough to hold the cod fillets in a single layer.

Step 2: Season and bake the cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Arrange the fillets in the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 3: Prepare the mustard sauce

While the cod is baking, whisk together crème fraîche, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, chopped herbs, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble and serve

When the cod is done, transfer it to serving plates. Spoon the mustard sauce over each piece or serve it on the side. Garnish with extra chopped herbs if desired.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice – Absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly
• Roasted asparagus or green beans – Fresh and slightly crunchy
• Crispy roasted potatoes – Adds a hearty element
• Lemon-dressed arugula salad – Light and peppery complement
• Simple couscous or quinoa – Quick, healthy sides
• Chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio – Refreshing wine pairing
• Crusty bread – Great for mopping up the extra sauce

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce

• Use fresh cod – For the best flavor and flaky texture
• Don’t overcook the fish – Check early to avoid drying out
• Pat cod dry before baking – Helps achieve a slightly crisp surface
• Adjust sauce consistency if needed – A splash of cream can thin it
• Use good-quality Dijon and whole-grain mustard – Key for flavor depth
• Lemon zest and juice brighten the sauce – Don’t skip them
• Garnish just before serving – Keeps herbs fresh and vibrant

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce

• Swap cod for halibut, haddock, or grouper – Same method, different flavors
• Add capers to the sauce – For a salty, briny pop
• Mix in a pinch of cayenne – Adds a little heat
• Use sour cream instead of crème fraîche – Budget-friendly swap
• Try thyme or tarragon in the sauce – For different herbal notes
• Top with sautéed spinach or arugula – Makes it a complete plate
• Drizzle a touch of honey into the sauce – For a hint of sweetness

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce

• Store leftovers in an airtight container – Best eaten within 1–2 days
• Keep sauce separate if possible – Maintains freshness
• Refrigerate immediately after serving – Fish is delicate
• Do not freeze – The sauce and fish texture change when frozen

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce

• Oven: Reheat cod at 300°F for 8–10 minutes – Covered lightly with foil
• Stovetop: Reheat sauce gently in a small pan – Stirring constantly
• Microwave: Use low power for 30-second intervals – For quick reheating
• Avoid overheating fish – Can cause it to dry out
• Serve with a fresh squeeze of lemon after reheating – Restores brightness

Nutritional Value (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg

A beautifully balanced dish rich in lean protein and healthy fats.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s mustard sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the mustard sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

What can I use instead of crème fraîche in mustard sauce?

Sour cream or Greek yogurt can be used as substitutes for crème fraîche. The flavor will be slightly tangier but still creamy and delicious.

How do I know when cod is fully cooked?

Cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout. It usually takes 10–12 minutes at 400°F, depending on thickness.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Cod with Mustard Sauce proves that simple ingredients, when handled thoughtfully, can create restaurant-worthy meals at home. With its flaky fish, vibrant sauce, and easy preparation, this recipe is ideal for when you want something delicious and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten’s Roasted Tomato Soup
• Barefoot Contessa Tomato Soup with Orzo
• Ina Garten Baked Cod with Ritz Crackers
• Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan with Arugula
• Ina Garten Chocolate Sauce

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