Description
This Quick Cod in Tomato Garlic Sauce recipe features tender cod fillets seared to perfection and simmered in a flavorful tomato, garlic, and fresh basil sauce. Infused with aromatic spices and a touch of lemon juice, this dish is a light, healthy, and satisfying seafood meal ideal for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasoning
- 1 pound cod fillets (can substitute with halibut or tilapia)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Cooking
- 1 tablespoon oil (avocado oil recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup minced onion or shallot
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced or finely grated
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup vegetable stock or water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Season the cod: Combine smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then generously season both sides with the spice mixture to infuse flavor.
- Sear the cod fillets: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large heavy-duty pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned cod fillets and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they develop a light golden brown crust. Remove the cod from the pan and set aside to rest while preparing the sauce.
- Prepare the sauce base: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced onion or shallots and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they soften and turn lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently to release its aroma without burning. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in 1/2 cup of vegetable stock (or water), add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and stir in 4 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the sauce and adjust salt as necessary.
- Finish cooking the cod: Return the seared cod fillets to the pan with the tomato garlic sauce. Simmer together for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cod is fully cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with extra chopped fresh basil and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich, fresh flavors of this hearty yet light seafood dish.
Notes
- For a milder spice, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute cod with halibut or tilapia without altering cooking times significantly.
- If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used but add it earlier in the cooking process to enhance flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the cod to maintain its tender, flaky texture.
Keywords: cod recipe, tomato garlic sauce, quick seafood dinner, Mediterranean fish dish, seared cod, healthy seafood recipes, basil tomato sauce