Description
Enjoy a flavorful and healthy Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce, a light yet satisfying seafood dish. Fresh cod fillets are pan-seared until golden and served with a vibrant tomato basil sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and a hint of spice. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 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
- 4 fresh cod fillets (6 oz each)
- Additional salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 9-12 minutes until they soften and release juices.
- Add vegetable broth and 1 tbsp of lemon juice; let the mixture simmer.
- Stir in fresh basil, remaining lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Cook the Cod
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
- Sear cod for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and flaky.
Combine and Serve
- Pour the prepared tomato basil sauce over the seared cod fillets in the pan.
- Let the sauce warm through for 1 minute.
- Serve immediately with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Substitutes: Swap cod with halibut, tilapia, or haddock.
- Spicy Option: Add more red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Additional Flavor: Stir in olives or capers for a Mediterranean touch.
- Make It Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean