Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce

Oh, the joys of a simple yet elegant dinner! Today, I’m so thrilled to share with you a recipe that not only promises but delivers bursts of flavor that transport you straight to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean. This pan-seared Mediterranean cod in a savory tomato basil sauce is a delightful dish that will leave your dinner guests begging for the recipe!

From the very first sizzle to the last tantalizing bite, this dish is anything but boring!! The aromatic blend of fresh basil, tangy lemon, and sweet cherry tomatoes creates a sauce that’s both vibrant and comforting. Perfect for a busy weeknight yet sophisticated enough for a leisurely dinner party, this recipe is a heartfelt “thank you” to the sea for its bountiful and delicious offerings.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 large cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (divided: 1 tbsp for sauce, 2 tbsp for seasoning)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (more to taste)
• 1 and 1/2 pounds fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets
• Additional salt and pepper for seasoning

How to Make

Sauce Preparation:

1. Start the Sauce: In a large sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the red pepper flakes and garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Cook Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook until they are soft and begin to blister, about 9-12 minutes.
3. Simmer: Stir in the vegetable broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Allow it to simmer gently to blend the flavors.
4. Final Touches: Mix in the chopped basil, remaining lemon juice, zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.

Cod Preparation:

1. Cook the Cod: In another pan, heat some more olive oil over medium heat. Season the cod fillets with salt and pepper, then place them in the pan. Cook until golden brown, approximately 3 minutes on each side.
2. Combine and Serve: Pour the warm tomato basil sauce over the cooked cod, heat together for about a minute, and then plate. The smell when this hits the table is incredible!!

Helpful Tips

• Pan Selection: Use a non-stick pan for cooking the cod to ensure it gets a nice crust without sticking.
• Garlic Watch: Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks quickly and can turn bitter if burned.

Substitutions/Variations

• Herbs: Not a fan of basil? Try parsley or cilantro for a different twist.
• Fish: If cod isn’t available, any firm white fish like halibut or sea bass makes a great substitute.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried basil?
   • Fresh basil is recommended for its bright flavor, but in a pinch, 1 teaspoon of dried basil can be used.
2. How can I prevent the cod from breaking while flipping?
   • Use a thin, flexible spatula for flipping the fish gently and ensure it has formed a crust before attempting to turn it.

Storage Instructions

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the cod.

More Relevant Recipes

• Honey Bun Brownies Recipe
• Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream Sauce

Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey. I’m eager to hear how your Mediterranean feast turns out. Dive in, enjoy, and let the flavors whisk you away to the Mediterranean coast! Happy cooking!

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