Welcome to a delicious journey where we’re going to whip up a dish that’s as easy as it is tasty – Lemon-Butter Cod with Tomato Sauce. Imagine tender cod fillets gently cooked until perfectly flaky, then bathed in a zesty and slightly spicy tomato sauce. We’ve got juicy cherry tomatoes, a hint of garlic, and a splash of lemon juice to bring it all together. And let’s not forget the fresh herbs for that final touch of flavor. This dish is all about simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just treat yourself to a delightful meal, this recipe has got you covered. So, let’s grab our aprons and start cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 pound cod fillets, seasoned with salt and pepper
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
- 3 green onions, whites and greens separated and sliced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (alternatively, white wine or dashi can be used)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, adjusted to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cod:
- Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the seasoned cod fillets. Cook until golden and flaky, about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Tomato Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the halved cherry tomatoes, chopped garlic, red pepper flakes, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté until the tomatoes are soft and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour in the chicken broth (or your choice of white wine or dashi) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the lemon juice and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the sauce, stirring until it’s completely melted and the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Garnish:
- Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Let everything warm through for a minute. Just before serving, sprinkle the dish with the chopped parsley, basil, and the green parts of the green onions.
Enjoy this Lemon-Butter Cod with Tomato Sauce as a light and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Serve it with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce!