Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce

Ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, for dusting
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper and lightly dust with flour.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the cod fillets and sear until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic, and sauté until onion is translucent.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to break down.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a simmer and let the liquid reduce by half.
7. Return the cod to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through.
8. Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes |  Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Recipe Notes and Variations

Ingredient Substitutions:

If you don’t have cod fillets on hand, you can easily substitute another firm, white fish such as halibut or haddock. Additionally, you can swap the cherry tomatoes for canned diced tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available.

Flavor Enhancements:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the tomato basil sauce. You can also experiment with different fresh herbs such as parsley or oregano to tailor the dish to your taste preferences.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely with a dish this delicious!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the cod and sauce in a skillet over low heat until heated through, being careful not to overcook the fish.

Food and Drink Pairings

Pair your Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the delicate flavors of the fish. For sides, consider serving roasted vegetables or a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a well-balanced meal.

Conclusion

• In conclusion, Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce is a testament to the beauty of simple yet elegant cooking. With its tender cod fillets bathed in a luscious tomato basil sauce, this dish is sure to elevate any dinner occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, you’ll appreciate the ease of preparation and the exquisite flavors of this Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious culinary inspiration!