Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce

Bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with this Pan-Seared Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce. Light, fresh, and packed with zesty flavors, this dish pairs tender, flaky cod with a luscious tomato-basil sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and olive oil. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or an elegant meal to impress your guests!

Ingredients

For the Tomato Basil Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 large cloves Garlic, finely minced
• 1 pint Cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup Vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup Fresh basil, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon Fresh lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Fresh ground black pepper (more to taste)

For the Cod:

• 1 and 1/2 pounds Fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets
• 2 tablespoons Fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Season the Cod : Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and season generously with salt and black pepper. Set aside while preparing the sauce.
2. Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce : Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices. Add the vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, fresh basil, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Pan-Sear the Cod : Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the cod fillets in the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork. Be gentle when flipping to avoid breaking the fillets.
4. Combine and Serve : Gently nestle the seared cod fillets into the skillet with the tomato basil sauce. Spoon the sauce over the fish and simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat through. Serve immediately with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

This Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and zesty lemon perfectly complements the delicate flavor of the cod. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a surefire hit.