Description
This Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce features tender cod fillets perfectly seared and topped with a vibrant, fresh tomato basil sauce. The sauce balances sweetness from cherry tomatoes with the brightness of fresh lemon and the aromatic punch of garlic, crushed red pepper, and fresh basil. A quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Tomato Basil Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (divided)
- ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Cod
- 4 fresh cod fillets (6 oz each)
- Additional salt and pepper for seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
Instructions
- Heat oil and sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and finely minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook for 9-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, forming a chunky sauce.
- Add broth and lemon juice, simmer: Stir in ½ cup of vegetable broth and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer gently to meld the flavors.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the finely chopped fresh basil, the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh lemon zest, salt, sugar, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes, then remove the pan from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Prepare cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear cod: In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets. Sear for about 3 minutes on each side until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
- Combine fish and sauce: Pour the tomato basil sauce over the seared cod fillets in the skillet.
- Warm through: Let the sauce and fish warm together for about 1 minute on low heat so the flavors blend perfectly.
- Serve: Serve the pan-seared Mediterranean cod immediately, pairing it with your choice of pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Patting the cod dry before searing ensures a nice golden crust.
- You can adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your spice preference.
- Use fresh herbs and lemon zest for the best bright flavor in the sauce.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- For a gluten-free meal, serve with rice or gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
