Description
This Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make seafood dish. Tender cod fillets are seared to golden perfection and then simmered in a savory tomato basil sauce enhanced with olives, capers, and garlic. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe offers a healthy, vibrant dinner that brings Mediterranean flair to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup capers
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Season the fish: Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
- Heat the olive oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to warm until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the cod fillets: Add the cod fillets to the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté onion and garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook while stirring occasionally until the onions become translucent and soft, releasing their aroma.
- Make the tomato basil sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, fresh basil, chopped black olives, and capers into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine fish with sauce: Return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the tomato basil sauce over them. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes so the fish can absorb the sauce’s flavors.
- Serve: Plate the cod with the tomato basil sauce spooned on top and serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a bright, citrusy finish.
Notes
- Use fresh cod fillets for optimal flavor and texture.
- Adjust salt carefully as capers and olives add saltiness.
- For a spicier variation, add red pepper flakes when cooking the onion and garlic.
- Serve with crusty bread or over cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the cod to keep it moist and flaky.
