This easy cod dish features tender fish cooked in a zesty tomato lemon butter sauce. It’s light, bright, and perfect for a quick dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod: Cod is mild and flaky, perfect for this dish. If you can’t find cod, try using halibut or tilapia as alternatives. They cook similarly and will absorb the sauce wonderfully.
Cherry Tomatoes: I love using a mix of red and yellow cherry tomatoes for color. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work well too. Just drain them to avoid excess liquid.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best as it lets you control the salt. For a dairy-free option, consider using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute. It’ll still give a good flavor, just a bit different.
Herbs: Fresh basil really brightens this dish. If you’re out of basil, fresh parsley or even a bit of oregano can be good substitutes. Dried herbs work too, but use less as they’re more concentrated!
How Do I Get the Cod Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking cod just right is crucial. Overcooking it can make it dry. Here’s how to ensure it stays moist and tender:
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the cod. This helps create a nice sear.
- Cook the cod for about 3-4 minutes on each side. It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod when it’s close to done, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Watching the cook time closely will keep your cod delightful and flaky!
Easy Cod in Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
- Cod: 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each), skinless and boneless
- Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cooking Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Butter: 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Flavorings: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Tomatoes: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (a mix of red and yellow for color)
- Herbs: 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Onions: 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Lemon: 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Heat: 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for slight heat)
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cod dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal that can be done in just 25 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cod:
Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps them sear nicely in the pan. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Sear the Cod:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the cod fillets to the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and just cooked through. Once done, remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter to the same skillet. When the butter melts, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute, or until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Tomatoes:
Next, throw in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften and start releasing their delicious juices into the skillet.
5. Combine with Other Ingredients:
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped basil, sliced green onions, and if you like a bit of heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Let this mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes so those lovely flavors can meld together.
6. Bring it All Together:
Now it’s time to return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet. Spoon some of that tasty tomato lemon butter sauce over the cod, and let everything heat together for an additional 1-2 minutes. This will ensure the cod is warmed through again.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the cod for a lovely pop of color and flavor. Serve the cod hot with the sauce spooned generously on top. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or crusty bread that’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce!
Enjoy this vibrant and buttery cod dish that’s not only quick and easy but also bursting with fresh tomato, lemon, and herb flavors!
FAQ: Easy Cod in Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
Can I use frozen cod instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is to place it in the fridge overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What can I substitute for fresh basil?
If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use fresh parsley or a small amount of dried oregano or thyme. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount called for with fresh herbs.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the cod.
Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just add them after the garlic but before the tomatoes, so they have time to cook through.
