Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cod:

• Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

1. Sear the Cod:

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

1. Make the Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

1. Add the Tomatoes and Herbs:

• Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

1. Finish the Sauce:

• Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix until the butter is melted and the sauce is creamy.

1. Combine and Serve:

• Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cook for an additional minute to warm the fish through.

1. Garnish and Enjoy:

• Serve the cod hot, garnished with fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• With Sides: Serve with steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
• For Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Tips

• Choosing Cod: Look for fresh or frozen cod fillets that are firm and have a mild scent. If using frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.
• Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful dish that showcases the delicate flavor of cod while delivering a vibrant, zesty sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare and offers a healthy yet indulgent option for seafood lovers. With its combination of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can easily whip up this restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this flavorful meal—it’s sure to become a favorite!