Cod in traditional and modern cuisine: 10 recipes to enjoy it at this time of year

Sunday 5 April 2026 23:00 - Patricia González
Cod in traditional and modern cuisine: 10 recipes to enjoy it at this time of year

Cod is once again in the spotlight at this time of year for a clear reason: it continues to be one of the most popular fish in Lent and Easter cuisine. It has been part of the traditional recipe book for generations, but that has not prevented it from adapting to more modern and lighter ways of cooking.

Its interest in cooking has to do with several specific qualities. It has a firm flesh, it accepts very different techniques and fits well in oven and spoon dishes as well as in fried dishes, salads or fresher preparations. That is why it continues to work just as well in classic recipes as in more modern ones.

These ten recipes show just that. They bring together dishes that are part of the tradition and others that fit better in a faster and everyday cooking, but all of them are based on the same idea: to make good use of a fish that still has a lot to say on the table at this time of the year... or not necessarily.


Cod with cream, Portuguese tradition

A classic of Portuguese cuisine that combines crumbled cod, potato and a creamy baked base. It is a hearty recipe, designed for sharing, which demonstrates how cod is well adapted to richer and more enveloping preparations.

Cod fish with cream, the portuguese recipeRecipe Cod fish with cream, the portuguese recipe

Travel to Portugal with this world known dish !

Portuguese codfish fritters

Small, irregular, with that homemade touch that does not seek perfection. These fritters are a simple way to start a meal or solve an appetizer without complications, with the cod well integrated into the dough.

Portuguese-style cod frittersRecipe Portuguese-style cod fritters

Let's get to work on one of Portugal's most emblematic recipes: cod fritters!

Cod puff pastry with spinach

Here the cod is presented in a more attractive way, wrapped in puff pastry and accompanied by spinach. An option that works well when looking for something different without resorting to complex techniques.

Puff pastry cod with spinach and mozzarellaRecipe Puff pastry cod with spinach and mozzarella

A fish-filled puff pastry, both in its filling and its shape! Paired with spinach, this recipe is an easy, original, and fun way to get kids (and reluctant adults) to eat fish and vegetables. ;-) Just follow our step-by-step instructions below, and...

Codfish en papillote

Cooking in parchment (en papillote) is a clean and efficient way to work with fish. The cod is steamed in its own steam, with vegetables and aromas that respect its flavor and keep its texture intact.

Cod en papilloteRecipe Cod en papillote

It's possible to make an easy, light, and balanced meal! This cod en papillote is proof :-) Gentle steaming gives the fish an extra-tender texture. For sides, we chose simple ingredients that are usually found in every fridge and pantry: tomatoes and...

Golden cod or bacalhau à brás

One of Portugal's most recognizable dishes. Crumbled cod, fine potato and softly bound egg. A straightforward recipe, without artifice, that still works because it is so well balanced.

Traditional portuguese bacalhau à brás: easy and deliciousRecipe Traditional portuguese bacalhau à brás: easy and delicious

A classic of Portuguese cuisine, Bacalhau à Brás is a simple, flavorful dish combining flaked cod , crispy matchstick potatoes and creamy scrambled eggs , all tossed in an aromatic sauté with onion and olive oil. This traditional Portuguese...

Chickpea and cod salad

A lighter proposal that combines legumes and cold fish. It is practical, can be left ready in advance and fits well both as a main dish and as an accompaniment.

Chickpea salad with codRecipe Chickpea salad with cod

Choose this chickpea and cod salad for a light, nutritious, complete, and fragrant meal. It’s also a great option to take along on a picnic or to work. Easy and delicious, this dish comes together in just minutes. Mix everything together and it’s...

Codfish Acras

Very popular in French and Caribbean cuisine, acras de bacalao are a kind of small, spicy, fried fritters with a light interior and a golden surface. They are a different way of incorporating cod to the recipe book.

West indian cod frittersRecipe West indian cod fritters

Cod accras are fried fritters made from a light batter of flour, baking powder, beaten egg whites, and poached cod. The batter is seasoned with garlic, shallots, parsley, chili pepper, and thyme, then fried until golden brown. They have a crispy...

Traditional codfish fritters

Closer to the classic Spanish recipe book, these fritters have a light texture and a recognizable flavor. They work well both as a tapa and in an informal meal.

Super easy cod fritters!Recipe Super easy cod fritters!

Among the recipes we love to eat with our fingers, these cod fritters are impossible to resist ;-) Serve them as an appetizer with yoghurt or chilli sauce, or on a plate with a salad as a main course ;-) With this recipe, we can assure you that your...

Cod with baked potatoes

One of those recipes that need no introduction. Fish, potato and oven in a simple combination that still makes sense in everyday cooking.

Ultra-easy baked cod (perfect when you're looking for a dinner idea!)Recipe Ultra-easy baked cod (perfect when you're looking for a dinner idea!)

Finding meal ideas for family dinners can be challenging. This baked cod is not only easy to prepare but also a great way to get everyone to eat fish. Served with potatoes and enhanced with lemon and bay leaves, it's sure to be delicious. Follow our...

Codfish ceviche

A different way of working this fish, moving away from traditional cooking. The acid marinade changes its texture and opens the door to a fresher and more modern approach.

Cod cevicheRecipe Cod ceviche

Travel to South America with our ceviche recipe! No cooking required—make this colorful, flavorful dish at home. Cod is paired with diced tomatoes, green peppers, and mango to bring a bit of sunshine to your kitchen.

Patricia GonzálezPatricia González
Passionate about cooking and good food, my life revolves around carefully chosen words and wooden spoons. Responsible, yet forgetful. I am a journalist and writer with years of experience, and I found my ideal corner in France, where I work as a writer for Petitchef. I love bœuf bourguignon, but I miss my mother's salmorejo. Here, I combine my love for writing and delicious flavors to share recipes and kitchen stories that I hope will inspire you. I like my tortilla with onions and slightly undercooked :)

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