Description

If you’re looking for a dish that combines the freshness of Mediterranean flavors with the ease of a weeknight dinner, Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is the perfect choice. This dish is not only quick to make but also bursts with the delightful combination of zesty lemon, fresh basil, and juicy cherry tomatoes. Here’s how to bring this mouthwatering recipe to life in your kitchen.

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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic, letting them sauté for about one minute to release their aromatic flavors. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften and blister, which typically takes 9 to 12 minutes.

Stir in the vegetable broth and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, allowing the mixture to simmer gently. Then, add the chopped basil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and ground black pepper. Let the sauce cook for another two minutes before setting it aside.

Step 2: Pan-Sear the Cod
In another pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the cod fillets generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Sear the fillets in the pan for about three minutes per side until they turn golden brown and flaky.

Step 3: Combine and Serve
Once the cod is cooked, pour the warm tomato basil sauce over the fillets. Allow everything to warm up together for about a minute before plating. Serve this flavorful dish immediately, and watch it become a family favorite.

Notes

Serving and Storage Tips

To make the most out of your Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce, consider these serving and storage tips to elevate your dining experience and ensure no delicious bite goes to waste.

Serving Suggestions

Side Pairings: Serve the cod with a side of fluffy jasmine rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty artisan bread to soak up the flavorful tomato basil sauce.
Vegetable Accompaniments: Pair with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a fresh Mediterranean salad for a well-rounded meal.
Presentation: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or a wedge of lemon for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Ensure the sauce and cod are stored together to keep the fish moist and flavorful.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if the sauce has thickened. Avoid microwaving to maintain the cod’s texture.
Freezing: While the cod is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Place the fillets and sauce in a freezer-safe container, ensuring there is minimal air exposure. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.