How do you make cod with tomato basil sauce at home?

Making cod with tomato basil sauce at home is straightforward. First, season and sear cod fillets until golden brown. Remove them temporarily while you make the sauce by sautéing garlic, adding basil, lemon juice, zest, and wine. Reduce this mixture, then add cherry tomatoes, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Return the cod to the skillet to finish cooking in the sauce for about 3 minutes per side, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Can you use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cod works well for this tomato basil sauce recipe. Thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight, then pat it very dry with paper towels before cooking. Frozen cod may release a bit more liquid during cooking, so you might need to sear it slightly longer to achieve the same golden crust as fresh cod.

How long should you cook cod in tomato sauce?

After searing the cod and preparing the tomato basil sauce, the fish should cook in the sauce for approximately 3 minutes per side, or 5-6 minutes total. The exact time depends on the thickness of your fillets. The cod is done when it's opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F.

What herbs go well with cod and tomato sauce?

While basil is the star herb in this cod in tomato basil sauce recipe, other herbs that pair beautifully include fresh parsley, thyme, oregano, dill, and chives. For an interesting twist, a small amount of fresh mint or tarragon can add unexpected but delightful notes. Fresh herbs added at the end of cooking provide the brightest flavor.

Can you make cod in tomato basil sauce in the oven or on the stovetop?

This recipe uses a combined approach—stovetop searing followed by finishing the dish on the stovetop. However, you can make a baked version by searing the cod briefly, preparing the sauce separately, then combining them in a baking dish and finishing in a 375°F oven for about 8-10 minutes. The stovetop version offers more control over the sauce reduction and fish doneness.

What sides go well with cod in tomato basil sauce?

The best sides for cod in tomato basil sauce include crusty bread, rice pilaf, couscous, or polenta to soak up the delicious sauce. For vegetables, consider roasted asparagus, sautéed greens like spinach or kale, a simple green salad, or roasted Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Simple, clean flavors work best to complement rather than compete with the flavorful sauce.

Best Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe | Delicious Mediterranean Delight

Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce

Print Recipe

A Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets in a vibrant tomato basil sauce with garlic and lemon. Simple yet elegant!

Author: Chef Rina
Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 25
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 1x
Category: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

Scale

4 3oz fresh cod fillets
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
7 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp dried basil you can also use fresh basil, chopped up
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp fresh lemon zest
1 cup dry white wine Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc work great
1.5 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tsp granulated sugar
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 200°F. Rinse cod fillets and pat completely dry with paper towels.
Season cod generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cod fillets and sear for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Fish will not be fully cooked yet.
Transfer cod to a plate and place in warm oven while preparing sauce.
In the same skillet, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until golden, about 2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
Add dried basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and white wine. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 7 minutes until liquid is reduced by half.
Add cherry tomatoes, sugar, and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Return cod to the skillet and cook for approximately 3 minutes per side until fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve immediately with tomato basil sauce spooned over the cod.

Notes

For best results, use the freshest cod available and don’t overcook it. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4
Calories: 210 Kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 185mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1.2g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 1.5g
Protein: 19g
Cholesterol: 48mg

Keywords: cod recipe, tomato basil sauce, seafood dinner, Mediterranean fish, healthy fish recipe

Find it online: https://www.joyliciousrecipes.com/golden-cod-garlic-tomato-basil-sauce/