This easy cod dish features tender fish smothered in a tasty tangy tomato lemon butter sauce. It’s fresh, bright, and super simple to prepare—perfect for a weeknight meal!
Nothing beats the smell of lemon and tomatoes cooking together! I love serving this with rice or pasta to soak up that yummy sauce. You’ll want seconds, I guarantee it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod fillets: Fresh cod is ideal for its mild flavor and flaky texture, but you can use other white fish like haddock or tilapia as substitutions. Frozen cod works too; just make sure to thaw it properly.
Cherry tomatoes: A mix of red, yellow, and orange tomatoes provides visual appeal and flavors. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes work well. Just drain them a bit before using!
Fresh herbs: Basil and parsley add brightness and freshness. If you can’t find them, feel free to use dried herbs in smaller amounts. But fresh makes a big difference in this dish!
Lemon: Lemon zest and juice provide that tangy flavor. If you only have bottled lemon juice, that’s fine too, but fresh is always best when you can get it!
How Can I Get the Cod Crispy and Cooked Just Right?
Getting the cod crispy outside while keeping it juicy inside is key! To achieve this, it’s important to keep the skillet hot when you add the fish.
- Start with a well-heated skillet and make sure the oil is shimmering before adding the cod.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the fillets in batches if needed.
- Pat the fish dry first to help it sear better and achieve that golden crust.
- After searing each side for 3-4 minutes, don’t overcook. Cod become firm and opaque, which indicates doneness.
This way, you’ll enjoy crispy, tender cod every time! Happy cooking!
Easy Cod in Tangy Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes (red, yellow, orange), halved
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (including some green parts)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty cod dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll only need about 25 minutes to have a delicious meal on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cod:
Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels; this helps them get nice and crispy. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Cod:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the cod fillets in the pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are opaque in the center. Once cooked, take the fillets out of the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it’s fragrant but not browned—this keeps it from tasting bitter.
4. Add the Cherry Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften and burst, releasing their juices into the pan.
5. Mix in the Flavorings:
Stir in the chopped green onions, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice. Allow this mixture to simmer for 2 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
6. Create the Sauce:
Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and swirl it around until melted. This will make a lovely, silky sauce. Taste it and add more salt, pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes for heat if you desire.
7. Combine the Cod and Sauce:
Return the seared cod fillets back to the skillet, spooning that delicious tomato lemon butter sauce over the fillets. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm the cod through and let those flavors blend.
8. Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Once cooked, turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped basil and parsley over the top to add freshness and color.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your cod fillets hot, generously topped with the tangy tomato lemon butter sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your meal! Each bite is bursting with flavor, making this an easy yet impressive seafood dish that’s sure to please.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight, or place the fillets in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Cherry Tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned diced tomatoes or regular tomatoes chopped into small pieces. Just make sure to drain canned tomatoes slightly to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This cod dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a light, balanced meal!
