Description
This Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring tender cod fillets perfectly seared and topped with a savory tomato and fresh basil sauce. Infused with garlic, lemon, and subtle spices, this recipe offers a delightful Mediterranean flair that comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal meal for weeknights or special occasions.
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
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes and 3 cloves of finely minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Stir in 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 9-12 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a rich base for the sauce.
- Simmer with Broth and Lemon: Add ½ cup vegetable broth and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the pan. Let the mixture simmer gently to meld the flavors.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in ¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil, the remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon granulated sugar, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove the pan from heat.
- Season the Cod: Pat 4 cod fillets (6 oz each) dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat Oil for Searing: In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Sear the Cod: Place the seasoned cod fillets in the hot pan. Sear each side for about 3 minutes or until a golden crust forms and the fish becomes flaky inside.
- Add Sauce to Cod: Pour the prepared tomato basil sauce over the seared cod fillets in the pan.
- Warm Through: Allow the sauce and cod to heat together for 1 minute to blend flavors.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your choice of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete Mediterranean meal experience.
Notes
- Ensure the garlic is sautéed just until fragrant to avoid bitterness from overcooking.
- Drying the cod fillets before seasoning helps achieve a better sear and crispy crust.
- You can substitute vegetable broth with fish stock for enhanced seafood flavor.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred heat level.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful tomato basil sauce.
