Name: Quick & Easy Ginger Soy Glazed Cod Recipe: Light, Sweet-Savory & Totally Weeknight-Worthy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each); Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ½ tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, for thicker glaze); Sesame seeds + chopped green onions, for garnish; Lime wedges (optional)

Thanks so much for being here! If you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful dinner that comes together fast and tastes like a restaurant special, this Quick & Easy Ginger Soy Glazed Cod Recipe is it. We’re talking perfectly flaky white fish glazed in a sticky ginger-soy sauce with a touch of sweetness, a little kick of garlic, and that gorgeous golden caramelization on top. It’s simple enough for a Tuesday and fancy-feeling enough for guests.

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What Is Ginger Soy Glazed Cod?

This dish is all about balance: flaky, mild cod meets a glossy glaze made with soy sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, and a hint of honey or brown sugar. It’s slightly sweet, savory, gingery, and completely satisfying. Serve it over rice, noodles, or a veggie stir-fry and it’s a weeknight win you’ll want on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 25 minutes—start to plate!
Healthy and light, but not boring
Ginger, garlic, soy, and honey = flavor bomb
Perfect with rice or veggies
Easily adaptable for salmon, halibut, or tofu too!

What It Tastes Like

The cod is tender, flaky, and buttery. The glaze is sticky and rich, with bright ginger, savory soy, garlicky goodness, and just enough sweetness to balance it all out. Spoon extra sauce over your rice—it’s too good to leave behind!

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (optional, to thicken glaze)
Sesame seeds + chopped green onions, for garnish
Lime wedges (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

Nonstick or cast iron skillet
Small saucepan or bowl (for sauce)
Microplane for ginger
Spatula
Tongs

Optional Additions & Substitutions

Swap cod for salmon, tilapia, or tofu
Add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes for heat
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness
Want extra veggies? Add bok choy, snap peas, or steamed broccoli on the side

How to Make Ginger Soy Glazed Cod

Step 1: Prep the Fish

Pat cod fillets dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl or saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Heat over medium until slightly reduced. For a thicker glaze, whisk in cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1–2 minutes until glossy.

Step 3: Cook the Cod

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add cod fillets and sear 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and cooked through.

Step 4: Glaze & Serve

Pour glaze over the cod in the final minute of cooking, letting it bubble and caramelize slightly. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and a squeeze of lime.

What to Serve With It

Steamed jasmine or brown rice
Sesame noodles or stir-fried veggies
Garlicky spinach or bok choy

Or pair it with these flavor-packed dishes:

Beetroot Ricotta Cheese Spread – rich and vibrant for a bold appetizer
Seared Scallops with Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce – if you’re building a full seafood spread
Loaded Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl – perfect for pairing creamy, zesty bowls with flaky cod

Tips for Perfect Glazed Cod

Use a nonstick or well-oiled skillet to prevent sticking
Don’t overcook—cod should flake easily when done
Let the glaze thicken slightly in the pan for extra stickiness
Add the glaze just at the end so it doesn’t burn

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth
Best fresh: Cod is most tender right after cooking

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake this instead of pan-searing?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, then brush on glaze and broil for 1–2 minutes.

Is this gluten-free?

Use tamari or a certified GF soy sauce and you’re good to go!

Can I meal prep this?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce in advance and store the cod separately.

Wrapping It All Up

This Quick & Easy Ginger Soy Glazed Cod Recipe is the ultimate feel-good, fast dinner—flaky, savory, just a little sweet, and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for one, meal prepping, or hosting a low-effort dinner night, this one brings big flavor with zero stress.

Craving more creative, crave-worthy recipes? Try:

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