Are you tired of throwing away that delicious leftover cod from last night’s dinner? Think again! With a little creativity, you can turn yesterday’s meal into today’s masterpiece. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 mouth-watering recipes that will make you wonder how you ever went without them. From fish cakes and pasta to tacos and salads, we’ve got a recipe for every leftover cod lover.
Whether you’re short on time or looking for a quick and easy meal solution, these recipes are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re all made with just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time. So go ahead, get creative, and transform that leftover cod into something truly special.
Cod Fish Cakes with Lemon Aioli
These crispy cod fish cakes are packed with flavor and served with a tangy lemon aioli that will elevate your snack game.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cod, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, and lemon juice. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry fish cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the Lemon Aioli by combining mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic in a small bowl.
6. Serve cod fish cakes with a dollop of Lemon Aioli and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total (4-6 minutes per side for frying).
Creamy Cod and Potato Chowder
Warm up with this comforting and creamy chowder that combines flaky cod, tender potatoes, and a hint of smokiness from the bacon. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb cod fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon, then add butter, onion, and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cod, potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Baked Cod Tacos with Mango Salsa
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the sweetness of mango salsa with the flaky goodness of baked cod. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the cod, then sprinkle with cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing baked cod on tortillas and topping with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cod Fried Rice with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the delicate flavor of cod with a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked cod, flaked
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until softened.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the beaten eggs (if using); scramble until cooked through.
5. Stir in the cooked cod, cooked rice, and chopped green onions.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cod and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Cod and Spinach Stuffed Shells: A Twist on the Classic
This recipe takes a classic stuffed shell dish and adds a surprising twist by incorporating cod and spinach into the filling. The result is a delightful fusion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cod fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine cod, spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the cod-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover shells with marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cod and Coconut Curry
This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the bold flavor of cod, all wrapped up in a spicy curry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
4. Add cod; cook until opaque and flaky, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cod Caesar Salad Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these flavorful Cod Caesar Salad Wraps, packed with tender cod, crunchy romaine lettuce, and tangy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillets
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place cod fillets on the sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by placing a piece of cod, some romaine lettuce, and a dollop of Caesar dressing onto each tortilla.
6. Top with feta cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cod and Corn Fritters
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these delectable Cod and Corn Fritters, perfect for a quick snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cod (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together cod, corn kernels, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the lightly beaten egg and mix until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the cod mixture into the hot oil, forming fritters.
5. Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (frying time: 6-8 minutes).
Garlic Butter Cod Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of garlic butter, cod, and herbs, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cod fillet
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add cod fillet to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Toss cooked pasta with melted garlic butter mixture, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cod and Chickpea Salad
This Cod and Chickpea Salad is a light and flavorful twist on traditional seafood salads. With the addition of chickpeas, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cod, chickpeas, red onion, and parsley.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are pre-cooked or canned)
Leftover Cod Quesadillas
Turn last night’s cod dinner into a tasty lunch or snack with these easy-to-make quesadillas. By combining the leftover fish with cheese, tortillas, and a few simple seasonings, you’ll create a flavorful and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked cod
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine cod, cheese, and cumin. Mix well.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cod mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
6. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cod and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty recipe combines the flaky goodness of cod with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a crispy hash. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread sweet potato mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod, onion, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cod is cooked through.
5. Flake cod into small pieces and add to roasted sweet potatoes. Toss to combine. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cod and Avocado Toast
A simple yet flavorful breakfast or snack option that combines the richness of cod with the creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked cod (canned or fresh)
– 2 slices whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges, chopped cilantro, or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread a layer of mashed avocado on each slice.
3. Top with cooked cod, breaking it up into small pieces if using canned.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with lemon wedges, chopped cilantro, or red pepper flakes, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Toasting bread: 2-3 minutes
– Preparing avocado: 1 minute
– Assembling the dish: 2 minutes
Total cooking time: 5-6 minutes
Cod and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy and flavorful risotto is a perfect dish for a cozy dinner or special occasion. Pan-seared cod adds a nice texture contrast to the tender Arborio rice, while sautéed mushrooms provide an earthy depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cod fillet
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with mushrooms. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add white wine (if using) and stir until absorbed. Then, add warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Once the rice is cooked and creamy, remove from heat. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve cod on top of risotto, garnished with Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cod and Black Bean Burritos
A flavorful fusion of cod, black beans, and spices wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb cod fillet, cooked and flaked
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together black beans, cod, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the cod-black bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
4. Top with shredded cheese and any desired toppings.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a burrito shape.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cod and Zucchini Fritters
Enjoy the flavors of the sea and garden with this simple recipe that combines tender cod, crunchy zucchini, and a hint of herbs. These bite-sized fritters are perfect for snacking or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, flaked
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cod, zucchini, flour, paprika, garlic powder, egg, and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop the cod mixture into the oil, forming small fritters.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including frying time).
Cod and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of cod, the sweetness of tomatoes, and the crunch of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of cod (drained and flaked)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cod, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the cod-tomato mixture over the bread, leaving a small border around each slice.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the bread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cod and Lentil Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the flaky goodness of cod with the wholesome taste of lentils. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillet, skin removed
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups water
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, water, carrots, celery, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Add cod fillet, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the pot.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get creative with leftover cod and transform it into a variety of delicious meals! From comforting chowders to spicy curries, this article shares 18 mouth-watering recipes that will inspire you to reduce food waste. Discover how to make Cod Fish Cakes with Lemon Aioli, Creamy Cod and Potato Chowder, Baked Cod Tacos with Mango Salsa, and many more. These quick and easy meals are perfect for busy days or a lazy weekend. Let your imagination run wild and turn that leftover cod into a culinary masterpiece!