You want a meal that looks like you spent hours on it but actually takes less effort than scrolling through TikTok. Baked cod with mango avocado salsa is that meal. Flaky, buttery fish meets a sweet, tangy, creamy salsa—no fancy skills required.
It’s healthy, but it doesn’t taste like punishment. Impress your date, your in-laws, or just your cat (judgment-free zone here). Ready to make your kitchen look like a Michelin-starred restaurant without the stress?
Let’s go.
Why This Recipe Slaps
The magic here is in the contrast. Perfectly baked cod—tender, mild, and oh-so-flaky—pairs with a salsa that’s basically a vacation in a bowl. Sweet mango, creamy avocado, zesty lime, and a hint of spice? Yes, please.
It’s a flavor bomb that’s also packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be low-carb if you skip the tortilla chips (but why would you?).
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the cod: 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, salt and pepper to taste.
- For the salsa: 1 ripe mango (diced), 1 avocado (diced), 1/4 red onion (finely chopped), 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced), 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped), juice of 1 lime, salt to taste.
- Optional garnish: Lime wedges, extra cilantro, tortilla chips (for scooping, because rules were made to be broken).
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Because nobody likes a lukewarm fish disaster.
- Prep the cod. Pat fillets dry (soggy fish = sad fish), drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub it in like you’re giving the fish a mini massage.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes. The cod should flake easily with a fork.
Overcooked cod is drier than your last dating app conversation—don’t go there.
- Make the salsa. Toss mango, avocado, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Gently mix unless you enjoy avocado mush.
- Plate and dominate. Place cod on a dish, top with salsa, and garnish like you’re on #FoodTok. Serve immediately.
Storage: Don’t Ruin Your Leftovers
Store cod and salsa separately unless you enjoy brown, sad avocado.
Cod keeps for 2 days in the fridge; salsa lasts 1 day (avocado waits for no one). Reheat cod gently in the oven or microwave. Salsa?
Eat it cold—this isn’t a soup.
Why This Recipe Is a Win
High protein, low guilt. Cod is lean and packed with omega-3s. The salsa adds fiber, vitamins, and enough color to make your plate Instagram-worthy. It’s also quick (under 30 minutes) and versatile—serve with rice, greens, or straight out of the bowl like a champion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using unripe mango or avocado. Rock-hard mango = disappointment.
Squeeze gently—it should give a little.
- Overmixing the salsa. You’re not making guacamole. Fold gently unless you want a sloppy mess.
- Overcooking the cod. Set a timer. Fish goes from “perfect” to “cardboard” in 60 seconds.
Swaps and Subs
No cod? Halibut or tilapia works.
Not a mango fan? Try peaches or pineapple. Hate cilantro?
Basil or parsley won’t judge you. For extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the salsa. IMO, the world is your oyster—but maybe stick to fish here.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, but thaw it first.
Pat it dry extra well—frozen fish loves to hold onto moisture, and soggy fish is a crime.
How do I know when the cod is done?
It should flake easily with a fork and reach 145°F internally. If it’s rubbery, you’ve gone too far.
Can I make the salsa ahead?
Only if you enjoy brown avocado. Prep the ingredients separately and mix them right before serving.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yep.
Just skip the tortilla chips (or use keto-friendly ones). The salsa and cod are low-carb superstars.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
Skip the jalapeño or remove the seeds. The salsa will still taste like sunshine.
Final Thoughts
This dish is the culinary equivalent of a mic drop.
It’s easy, healthy, and tastes like you actually know what you’re doing. FYI, your future self will thank you when you’re eating leftovers straight from the fridge at midnight. Go make it—your taste buds (and your Instagram) deserve it.
Andreas – Keto recipe creator who lost 40lbs and discovered his love for low-carb cooking. 300+ tested recipes | 5 years of keto experience | Real food for real people. No certifications, just results that taste amazing!