The aroma of Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses with promises of vibrant flavors and a delightful dining experience. roasted Greek potatoes Imagine tender cod fillets nestled in a rich, tangy tomato sauce, infused with fresh basil—each bite is like a sun-drenched holiday by the sea. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Chicken Parm Soup recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What type of cod is best for this recipe?
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- What should I serve with Mediterranean Cod?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a bustling Mediterranean market filled with laughter and the sounds of sizzling pans. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this cod dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] The Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The blend of fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Its eye-catching colors make it an impressive centerpiece on any table. This dish is versatile enough for pairing with rice, pasta, or even crusty bread. [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this for my family; their eyes widened in delight, and my daughter declared it “the best fish ever.” grilled vegetable pasta salad.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cod Fillets: Look for firm, white fillets that have no fishy odor; they should smell like the ocean.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Use quality tomatoes packed in juice for a rich flavor base; San Marzano is my go-to!
Fresh Basil: Choose vibrant green leaves that are fragrant; they’ll elevate the dish’s freshness significantly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential here; avoid pre-minced varieties if you can for maximum flavor impact.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds depth; I recommend using it generously.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add just the right amount of heat; adjust to your spice tolerance!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully; it’s worth squeezing your own.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. seafood stuffed shells recipe.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop your basil and mince the garlic while enjoying their fresh aromas.
Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Then stir in diced tomatoes, letting them bubble away.
Add Seasonings and Simmer: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the tomato mixture and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened slightly.
Cook the Cod Fillets: Nestle the cod fillets into the sauce gently. Cover and let them cook for about 8-10 minutes until opaque and flaky. For more inspiration, check out this Cozy One Pot Ravioli Soup recipe.
Add Fresh Basil and Lemon Juice: Just before serving, stir in chopped basil and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top to enhance those Mediterranean flavors.
Serve It Up!: Ladle generous portions onto plates alongside rice or crusty bread. Don’t forget to garnish with extra basil if you’re feeling fancy!
Enjoy this Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce as you gather around your table—trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite! cheesy eggplant rollatini.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is a delightful dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. The burst of flavor from fresh tomatoes and basil elevates the cod, making it not just a meal but an experience you’ll remember. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by searing the cod for a crispy exterior, then simmer it gently in the tomato basil sauce to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish by adding olives or capers for extra zest. You can also swap out cod for other white fish like tilapia or halibut.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain moisture and flavor.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Perfecting Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce takes practice; don’t skip the searing step for texture. Always use fresh basil for vibrant flavor. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal experience! [/info_box]
Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of family dinners where laughter danced around the table, everyone savoring every bite of this delicious dish.
FAQ
What type of cod is best for this recipe?
Use fresh or frozen wild-caught cod for optimal taste and texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day ahead enhances the flavors even more!
What should I serve with Mediterranean Cod?
Serve with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of the Mediterranean to your table. Tender cod fillets are beautifully nestled in a rich, tangy tomato sauce, bursting with fresh basil and garlic notes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this easy recipe will impress your family and friends alike. Serve it with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the delicious sauce for a meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 (6 oz) fresh cod fillets
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep all ingredients by chopping basil and mincing garlic.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add canned tomatoes to the skillet, allowing them to bubble for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; simmer for another 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Gently place cod fillets into the sauce, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Stir in chopped basil and drizzle with lemon juice just before serving.
- Serve hot alongside rice or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet with sauce (230g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
