If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with something bright, fresh, and irresistibly delicious, the Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. This dish perfectly balances the delicate, flaky texture of seared cod with a vibrant tomato basil sauce that bursts with garden-fresh flavors. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple yet essential ingredients, and delivers a colorful plate that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe shines as a delightful centerpiece that feels both comforting and special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in building the dish’s flavor, texture, and color. Simple pantry staples combined with fresh garden herbs make this recipe easy and satisfying.
- 4 cod fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets for the best texture and meltingly tender results after searing.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A fruity olive oil helps sear the cod and also flavors the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved: These provide sweet juiciness and vibrant color in the sauce.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped: Fresh basil gives an herby, aromatic lift that brightens the entire dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds an essential savory depth without overwhelming the delicate fish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These basics enhance every element from the cod to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and richness that brings the tomato basil sauce together perfectly.
How to Make Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Heat and Season
Begin by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. While the pan warms, season each cod fillet generously with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will bring out the natural flavors of the fish and ensure a crisp, golden crust forms when seared.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
Carefully place the cod fillets in the hot skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on the first side; this helps create a beautiful sear. Then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the fillets are golden brown and cooked through—opaque and flaky inside.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce
While your cod is cooking, take another pan and warm a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until its fragrance fills the kitchen but it hasn’t browned—this keeps the flavor fresh and sweet rather than bitter.
Step 4: Cook the Tomatoes
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the garlic oil. Let them cook and soften gently, releasing their juices — this will be the juicy, flavorful base of your sauce.
Step 5: Finish with Basil and Balsamic
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the tomatoes. Cook together for just another minute, allowing the balsamic to meld with the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and the fresh brightness of the basil, forming a vibrant sauce that perfectly complements the cod.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Place your perfectly seared cod fillets onto plates and spoon the fresh tomato basil sauce generously over the top. This simple step transforms the dish into something truly special and visually stunning.
How to Serve Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A few torn fresh basil leaves scattered over the top add a lovely fresh aroma and visual pop. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate the dish’s flavors and presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides like creamy mashed potatoes, garlic roasted asparagus, or a simple lemony quinoa salad. Choose something light and fresh to keep the meal balanced and let the cod shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cod atop a bed of sautéed greens or alongside grilled polenta rounds. You can also plate the tomato basil sauce under the fish, using it as a flavorful base that makes each bite deliciously saucy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked, place any leftover cod and tomato basil sauce in airtight containers and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making them perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
Cod is best enjoyed fresh, but if you want to freeze leftovers, store the fish and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers. The tomato basil sauce freezes well for up to 3 months, while the texture of frozen and thawed cod may change slightly.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the cod. Warm the tomato sauce separately and combine just before serving to keep flavors bright and textures enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture when searing, which helps achieve that perfect golden crust.
What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
If balsamic vinegar isn’t on hand, a splash of red wine vinegar mixed with a tiny pinch of sugar can mimic its sweet tanginess in the tomato basil sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe is straightforward and forgiving, perfect for cooks at any skill level who want to impress without stress.
Can I substitute fresh basil with dried basil?
Fresh basil is recommended for its bright flavor but if you only have dried basil, use about a third of the amount and add it earlier in the cooking to help release its aroma.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the delicate flavors of the cod and the fresh tomato basil sauce beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe enough for anyone craving a quick, elegant meal that feels homemade and fresh. The combination of flaky, golden cod and the sweet, tangy tomato basil sauce is simply irresistible. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
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Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
A simple and flavorful seared cod recipe served with a fresh and vibrant tomato basil sauce. This quick dinner brings together tender, golden-brown cod fillets with a bright medley of cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a delightful dish perfect for any weeknight.
Ingredients
For the Cod
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Basil Sauce
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing garlic and tomatoes)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Season the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the hot skillet and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
- Sauté the Garlic: In another pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the garlic and cook until they begin to soften and release their juices, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add Basil and Vinegar: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional minute to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Plate the seared cod fillets and spoon the warm tomato basil sauce over the top. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Pat the cod dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
- You can substitute cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes if preferred.
- For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make sure not to overcook the fish to keep it moist and tender.
