This dish is a delightful combination of tender, flaky cod fillets bathed in a bright and savory tomato lemon butter sauce. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (4-6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (or 2 cups diced tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option)
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional, for a briny touch)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cod:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture ensures a good sear.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavor of the fish.
2. Sear the Cod:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned cod fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
3. Make the Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their juices.
- Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, then stir in the lemon zest and capers (if using).
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting it reduce slightly and intensify in flavor.
4. Return the Cod:
- Place the seared cod fillets back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
- Spoon the sauce over the fish and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, just to heat through and meld the flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately, spooning the luscious tomato lemon butter sauce over the fish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a light, fluffy grain like rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the sauce.
- For a low-carb option, serve alongside zucchini noodles, steamed asparagus, or roasted cauliflower.
- Add a slice of crusty bread on the side to mop up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
Tips for Success:
- Fish Selection: Fresh cod works best, but you can substitute with other white fish like halibut, tilapia, or haddock.
- Don’t Overcook: Cod cooks quickly and can become dry if overdone. Remove it from the pan as soon as it flakes easily.
- Wine vs. Broth: White wine adds a rich depth to the sauce, but chicken broth is a flavorful alternative if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.
- Capers: Optional, but they add a briny, tangy contrast that enhances the dish.
This Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home. The tender fish combined with the zesty, buttery sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying meal with family or friends!