Description
Bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with this Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce. This light yet satisfying dish pairs tender, flaky cod with a rich, tangy tomato basil sauce, making it a perfect balance of fresh, citrusy, and herby flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for special occasions!
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 1/2 pounds fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets
- Additional salt and pepper for seasoning
Instructions
Making the Tomato Basil Sauce
- Sauté the Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add red pepper flakes and garlic, sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Tomatoes – Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften and blister, about 9-12 minutes.
- Simmer & Flavor – Add vegetable broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Let it simmer to blend flavors.
- Final Touches – Stir in basil, remaining lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Cooking the Cod
- Heat the Pan – Warm olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat.
- Season & Sear – Generously season cod fillets with salt and pepper. Place them in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Combine & Serve – Pour the warm tomato basil sauce over the cod, heat together for a minute, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Substitute cod with other firm white fish like halibut, sea bass, or haddock.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a day.
- For best results, use fresh basil, but dried basil can work in a pinch (1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh).
- Serve with a side of garlic-herb couscous, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean