25+ Delicious Holiday Paleo Cod Recipes to Make Your Festivities Healthy

The holiday season is synonymous with indulgent meals, family gatherings, and festive treats, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy healthy, delicious options that align with your paleo lifestyle.

Enter the world of Paleo Cod Recipes — a perfect solution for those looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal without compromising on taste.

Cod is a mild, flaky fish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of flavors, making it an ideal choice for holiday dinners.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, preparing a festive feast, or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these 25+ Holiday Paleo Cod Recipes are the perfect addition to your meal planning.

From zesty lemon garlic cod to spicy mango salsa-topped fillets, these recipes will add a touch of elegance and health-conscious flair to your holiday spread.

Keep reading for a collection of vibrant, nutrient-dense cod recipes that are both paleo-friendly and irresistibly delicious!

25+ Delicious Holiday Paleo Cod Recipes to Make Your Festivities Healthy

With these 25+ holiday paleo cod recipes, you’re all set to create a healthy and festive holiday spread that will satisfy even the most discerning guests.

Whether you prefer a fresh, tangy twist or a rich, savory dish, there’s a recipe here for every palate.

Paleo doesn’t have to mean bland or boring, and these cod recipes are proof of that! Not only are they packed with nutrients, but they also capture the spirit of the season with vibrant, seasonal ingredients.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready to elevate your holiday meals with these mouthwatering, guilt-free cod dishes.

Herb-Crusted Baked Cod

This Herb-Crusted Baked Cod is the perfect centerpiece for a holiday dinner. The light, flaky cod is coated with a flavorful blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon zest, delivering a dish that is both simple and elegant. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also a healthy choice for those following a paleo diet. It’s quick to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones during the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper to create the herb mixture.
3. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spread the herb mixture evenly over each fillet, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve warm with lemon wedges for added brightness.

This dish brings together freshness and simplicity, making it ideal for a holiday gathering. The vibrant herbs and citrus notes complement the delicate cod, leaving your guests satisfied without feeling heavy.

Paleo Coconut Curry Cod

Indulge in the rich and warming flavors of this Paleo Coconut Curry Cod. Perfect for the holiday season, this dish blends tender cod with a creamy, spiced coconut curry sauce. Its vibrant golden hue and aromatic spices create a festive atmosphere, making it a standout dish. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and free from grains or dairy, ensuring it aligns perfectly with a paleo lifestyle.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic, ginger, curry powder, and turmeric, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Gently place the cod fillets into the curry sauce. Cover the skillet and simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily.
6. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve warm.

This dish combines indulgence with nourishment, making it a holiday favorite. The creamy coconut curry sauce is both comforting and exotic, delivering a festive touch that will delight your guests.

Paleo Lemon-Garlic Butter Cod

This Paleo Lemon-Garlic Butter Cod is a holiday showstopper with its bold yet simple flavors. The cod is cooked in a luscious lemon-garlic ghee sauce, giving it a rich taste that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a crisp side salad. Perfect for entertaining, this dish strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp ghee or clarified butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Heat the ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the cod fillets to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the fillets and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
5. Serve immediately with lemon slices for garnish.

This recipe is a true celebration of clean, vibrant flavors. The tangy lemon and buttery garlic elevate the cod to a luxurious holiday dish that’s sure to impress. Its simplicity ensures you can enjoy the festivities without being stuck in the kitchen.

Paleo Cod with Avocado Salsa

This fresh and vibrant Paleo Cod with Avocado Salsa is a perfect light and healthy dish for the holiday season. The combination of pan-seared cod with a zesty avocado salsa creates a refreshing contrast of flavors that are both satisfying and nourishing. The creamy avocado, tangy lime, and refreshing cilantro make this dish a crowd-pleaser while staying true to paleo principles.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 small tomato, diced
• Juice of 2 limes
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Season the cod fillets with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the cod fillets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through.
3. While the cod cooks, prepare the avocado salsa by combining diced avocados, red onion, tomato, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the cod fillets topped with the fresh avocado salsa.

This dish is a perfect balance of rich and fresh flavors. The pan-seared cod serves as a delicious backdrop for the vibrant avocado salsa, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying holiday meal.

Paleo Cod with Roasted Vegetables

For a wholesome and hearty meal, try this Paleo Cod with Roasted Vegetables. The cod fillets are baked to perfection alongside a medley of roasted root vegetables, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that is both nutritious and filling. It’s the ideal holiday meal that captures the essence of seasonal flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting vegetables)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss the diced sweet potatoes, carrots, and red onion in olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and fresh thyme. Spread the vegetables evenly on the baking sheet.
3. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are tender and lightly browned.
4. While the vegetables are roasting, season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the cod fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through.
5. Serve the cod fillets alongside the roasted vegetables.

This dish offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures, with the mild cod complementing the sweetness of the roasted root vegetables. It’s a hearty and wholesome choice for your holiday meal that will leave everyone satisfied.

Paleo Cod with Pesto Zoodles

This Paleo Cod with Pesto Zoodles is an incredibly flavorful and healthy option for your holiday spread. The light and flaky cod pairs wonderfully with the fresh, herbaceous pesto and zucchini noodles, making it a perfect low-carb and paleo-friendly dish. It’s a creative way to enjoy the classic flavors of a holiday meal while keeping it light and nutritious.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• ¼ cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
• 1 garlic clove
• ¼ cup olive oil (for pesto)
• 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. For the pesto: In a food processor, blend fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper, then cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden and cooked through.
3. While the cod cooks, heat a separate skillet over medium heat and sauté the zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Toss the zucchini noodles with the fresh pesto until well-coated.
5. Serve the pesto zoodles topped with the cooked cod fillets.

This recipe brings together the delicate flavor of cod with the vibrant freshness of pesto and zoodles, making it a standout dish for a healthy holiday meal. The zoodles provide a light, low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, while the pesto adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Paleo Cod with Spicy Mango Salsa

This Paleo Cod with Spicy Mango Salsa is a perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it an exciting and fresh dish for the holiday season. The mild cod fillets are complemented by a vibrant salsa made with ripe mango, spicy jalapeños, and zesty lime. It’s light, flavorful, and sure to impress your guests with its tropical twist.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 ripe mangoes, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium heat.
2. Season the cod fillets with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Grill or cook the cod for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fillets are opaque and easily flake with a fork.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and fresh cilantro to make the salsa. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the cod fillets topped with the spicy mango salsa.

This dish offers a refreshing and spicy flavor profile, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The combination of tender cod and the sweet-spicy mango salsa provides a delightful contrast, making it a memorable dish for any holiday celebration.

Paleo Cod with Lemon Asparagus

This Paleo Cod with Lemon Asparagus is a light yet satisfying dish that’s ideal for a holiday meal. The cod is delicately pan-seared to a golden perfection and served alongside crisp asparagus that’s infused with lemon and garlic. This recipe is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy and flavorful choice for a festive gathering.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp ghee or clarified butter
• 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the cod for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
2. While the cod cooks, heat the ghee in another skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the asparagus to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and slightly charred.
4. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the asparagus and toss to coat.
5. Serve the cod fillets alongside the lemony asparagus and garnish with fresh parsley.

This dish is a wonderful combination of light, refreshing flavors. The tangy lemon-infused asparagus pairs perfectly with the delicate cod, making it an elegant and wholesome choice for any holiday meal.

Paleo Cod with Tomato Basil Relish

The Paleo Cod with Tomato Basil Relish is a light yet flavorful option for holiday dinners. The succulent cod fillets are topped with a tangy, fresh tomato relish made with sweet cherry tomatoes, aromatic basil, and a dash of balsamic vinegar. This dish is refreshing, full of flavor, and makes a wonderful addition to a holiday feast.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the cod fillets with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
3. While the cod bakes, prepare the tomato relish by combining cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, fresh basil, red onion, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once the cod is ready, top each fillet with the fresh tomato basil relish and serve immediately.

This dish is bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors that highlight the delicious combination of cod and tangy tomato relish. It’s an easy, healthy, and delightful way to serve cod during the holidays, providing a burst of freshness to complement the festive season.

Paleo Cod with Cauliflower Mash

For a comforting and satisfying holiday meal, try this Paleo Cod with Cauliflower Mash. The perfectly pan-seared cod fillets are served alongside a creamy cauliflower mash, making it a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. This dish is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients, offering a delicious way to enjoy the holiday season while staying true to your paleo lifestyle.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 medium head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 2 tbsp ghee or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the cod for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork.
2. While the cod cooks, steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Once tender, place the cauliflower in a food processor or blender. Add ghee or olive oil, minced garlic, almond milk, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Serve the cod fillets on top of the cauliflower mash and garnish with fresh parsley.

This dish combines the richness of cauliflower mash with the delicate flavor of cod, making it a wholesome and filling option for any holiday celebration. It’s a perfect paleo-friendly alternative to heavier mashed potatoes.

Paleo Cod with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

This Paleo Cod with Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a flavorful and nutrient-packed dish, perfect for holiday dinners. The crispy roasted Brussels sprouts complement the delicate, flaky cod fillets beautifully. The caramelized Brussels sprouts, combined with the simple seasoning of the cod, make this meal both hearty and satisfying while remaining paleo-friendly.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on the edges.
4. While the Brussels sprouts roast, season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the cod for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the fillets are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve the cod fillets alongside the roasted Brussels sprouts and garnish with fresh thyme.

This recipe is a perfect combination of flavors, with the savory cod and the slightly sweet, caramelized Brussels sprouts. It’s a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your holiday spread while sticking to a paleo diet.

Paleo Cod with Roasted Tomato and Zucchini

This Paleo Cod with Roasted Tomato and Zucchini is a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the freshness of summer vegetables, even during the holiday season. The cod is perfectly cooked with a mild seasoning, while the roasted tomatoes and zucchini add depth of flavor. It’s light, healthy, and a great choice for those looking to keep their holiday meals fresh and vibrant.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the cherry tomatoes and zucchini slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic powder. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. While the vegetables roast, season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the cod for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fillets are golden and cooked through.
5. Serve the cod fillets alongside the roasted tomatoes and zucchini, garnished with fresh basil.

This dish is an excellent choice for a light yet flavorful holiday meal. The roasted vegetables bring out the sweetness of the tomatoes and the earthiness of the zucchini, while the cod serves as a delicate protein that complements the vibrant flavors. It’s a wholesome, paleo-friendly meal that is perfect for a festive occasion.

Paleo Cod with Herb Garlic Butter

This Paleo Cod with Herb Garlic Butter is a rich and flavorful dish that brings together the tender, flaky cod fillets with a luscious herb-infused garlic butter. The herbs and garlic elevate the fish to new heights, creating a festive and indulgent holiday meal that still stays within paleo guidelines. The combination of savory flavors is guaranteed to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp ghee or clarified butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the cod fillets for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
2. While the fish is cooking, melt ghee or clarified butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the fresh parsley, thyme, and lemon juice.
4. Once the cod fillets are cooked, drizzle the herb garlic butter over the fish and serve immediately.

This dish is a beautiful balance of richness from the garlic butter and the fresh, earthy herbs, creating a savory and indulgent experience. The cod remains light and flaky, making this dish an excellent choice for a festive paleo-friendly holiday meal.

Paleo Cod with Lemon Garlic Green Beans

Paleo Cod with Lemon Garlic Green Beans is a simple yet flavorful dish, where the cod is paired with vibrant green beans sautéed in a lemon garlic sauce. The bright and zesty lemon perfectly complements the mild flavor of the cod, while the green beans add a crunchy, refreshing element to the meal. This dish is healthy, easy to prepare, and perfect for a light holiday dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for green beans)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the cod for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
3. While the fish cooks, heat the remaining olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the green beans and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender, adding lemon zest and lemon juice during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve the cod fillets with the lemon garlic green beans, garnished with fresh parsley.

This dish is a perfect combination of light and fresh flavors, with the zesty lemon and garlic bringing out the best in both the cod and the green beans. It’s a wholesome and delicious paleo meal that’s ideal for the holidays.

Paleo Cod with Roasted Sweet Potato and Kale

Paleo Cod with Roasted Sweet Potato and Kale is a hearty and nutritious dish that combines the delicate cod with the richness of roasted sweet potatoes and the earthy flavors of sautéed kale. This dish offers a balance of textures and flavors, making it a great choice for a fulfilling holiday meal that aligns with paleo principles.

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sweet potatoes)
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the cubed sweet potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and golden.
3. While the sweet potatoes roast, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, then add the kale and cook for 4-5 minutes until wilted and tender. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh lemon juice.
4. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in another skillet over medium-high heat and cook the cod for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
5. Serve the cod fillets alongside the roasted sweet potatoes and sautéed kale.

This recipe combines the sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes with the savory cod and the rich, earthy flavor of kale, making it a nutrient-packed meal. It’s a wonderful paleo dish for a holiday meal that’s as satisfying as it is healthy.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!