Description
This Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is a flavorful and healthy main course featuring tender cod fillets cooked to perfection and served in a vibrant tomato and basil sauce. The dish combines the freshness of Mediterranean ingredients like olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil with the delicate, flaky texture of cod, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each), skinless and boneless
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Season and Sear Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides of each fillet generously with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets carefully and sear them for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden crust and are just cooked through. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and cherry tomatoes, then add the white wine (or chicken broth if preferred). Sprinkle in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and allow it to cook uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will thicken the sauce slightly and develop the flavors.
- Incorporate Fresh Basil and Adjust Seasoning: Remove the skillet from heat briefly and stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper as needed.
- Rewarm Cod in Sauce: Carefully return the cod fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Spoon some sauce over the fillets and simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to heat the fish through without overcooking.
- Serve: Transfer the cod fillets to serving plates, spoon extra sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh lemon wedges. Serve immediately accompanied by your choice of couscous, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- This dish is excellent served with couscous, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Cod can be substituted with halibut, haddock, or another firm white fish as desired.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- For a non-alcoholic option, use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of white wine.
