Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes with Paprika Aioli

Welcome to a culinary adventure that will elevate your dining experience with the exquisite flavors of Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes with Paprika Aioli. This recipe combines the delicate texture of cod with the rich, smoky essence of garlic and the vibrant taste of paprika, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself to a delightful meal, these smoked garlic cod cubes are sure to impress.

Imagine crispy, golden brown cod cubes, infused with the deep flavors of smoked garlic and paprika, paired with a creamy and zesty aioli that enhances each bite. This dish is versatile enough to be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even a flavorful addition to a seafood platter. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to prepare this mouthwatering dish, share tips for perfecting your aioli, and provide insights on why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes with Paprika Aioli. First and foremost, the combination of smoked garlic and paprika offers a unique flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. The cod, a mild and flaky fish, acts as a perfect canvas for these bold flavors, making each bite a delightful experience.

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings.
• Health Benefits: Cod is a lean source of protein, low in calories, and packed with essential nutrients, making this dish a healthy choice.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the spices or add your favorite herbs to make this dish your own. You could even substitute the cod for another fish or protein of your choice!
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the smoked garlic cod cubes and the rich paprika aioli make for a stunning presentation, ensuring your dish looks as good as it tastes.

Moreover, the creamy paprika aioli is not just a dip; it’s a flavor booster that ties the whole dish together. Its tangy kick complements the smokiness of the garlic and the subtle sweetness of the cod, making it a must-try for aioli lovers. With all these perks, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and again.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted to impress your family or friends with your culinary skills, then Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes with Paprika Aioli is the dish for you. This recipe is a delightful mix of simplicity and sophistication, making it perfect for both casual dinners and formal occasions. Here are a few reasons why you should give it a try:

• Flavor Explosion: The interplay of smoked garlic and paprika creates a depth of flavor that is both comforting and exciting. It’s a taste that lingers and leaves your guests craving more.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a quiet night in, this dish fits the bill. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cocktail.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a skillet means fewer pots and pans to wash afterward, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time cleaning up.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild taste of cod and the creamy aioli are generally appealing to children, making it a great option for family meals.

Trying new recipes can be intimidating, but this dish is approachable for cooks of all skill levels. Even if you’re a beginner, the clear instructions and simple ingredients will help you create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

To create your Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes with Paprika Aioli, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes:

• 1 lb cod fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves smoked garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Paprika Aioli:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Recommended Utensils:

• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet (preferably non-stick)
• Whisk or fork (for mixing aioli)
• Chopping board and knife (for cutting cod)
• Serving platter

These basic tools are essential for ensuring a smooth cooking process, allowing you to focus on the flavors and techniques that make this dish shine. The ingredients are also easy to find at your local grocery store or fish market. For a delicious side, consider pairing the cod cubes with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process for Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes with Paprika Aioli.

1. Preparing the Cod Cubes:

Start by marinating the cod:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 minced cloves of smoked garlic, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Add the 1 lb of cod cubes to the bowl and gently toss to coat each piece thoroughly.
• Allow the cod to marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature. This step is crucial as it infuses the cod with flavor.

2. Cooking the Cod:

Next, it’s time to cook the cod:

• Preheat a skillet over medium heat. It’s important to get the skillet hot before adding the cod to ensure a nice sear.
• Once hot, carefully place the marinated cod cubes in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
• Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the cod is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.
• Remove the cooked cod from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Making the Paprika Aioli:

While the cod is cooking, you can prepare the aioli:

• In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 minced clove of garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Serving the Dish:

Now it’s time to plate your dish:

• Arrange the smoked garlic cod cubes on a serving platter. Ensure they are evenly spaced for a beautiful presentation.
• Drizzle the paprika aioli generously over the cod cubes and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
• Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

**Practical Tips:** For a crispier texture, consider broiling the cod for the last minute of cooking. This will give it a nice golden finish. Additionally, feel free to make extra aioli to serve as a dip for veggies or chips!

FAQs

Conclusion

In conclusion, Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes with Paprika Aioli is a dish that beautifully combines simplicity and sophistication. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion and will surely impress your guests or family. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, consider sharing it with your friends. Happy cooking!

For more delicious recipes, check out these links: Spicy Garlic Fish Bites, Honey Mustard Chicken Cubes, Crispy Salmon Strips, Lemon Garlic Meatballs, Teriyaki Steak Cubes, Cajun Cod Bites, and Explore more on Pinterest!

Smoked Garlic Cod Cubes with Paprika Aioli

Deliciously marinated cod cubes, seared to perfection and served with a creamy paprika aioli.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Cod fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 cloves Smoked garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Paprika Aioli

• ½ cup Mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 1 clove Garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cod cubes and toss gently to coat. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
• Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated cod cubes and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, smoked paprika, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
• Arrange the smoked garlic cod cubes on a serving platter. Drizzle with the paprika aioli and garnish with fresh parsley.
• Serve warm as an appetizer or main dish.

Notes

Feel free to add more spices to the aioli for a kick of flavor!

Keyword Aioli, Cod, garlic, seafood