Easy Cod in Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Cod Fillets: Fresh cod is the star of this dish, but you can easily substitute other white fish like haddock or tilapia if needed. Just ensure they’re boneless for easy eating.

Cherry Tomatoes: I love the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, but you can use regular diced tomatoes if you prefer. Canned tomatoes also work in a pinch; just drain them to avoid excess liquid.

Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re going for a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute instead.

Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil brighten the flavors. If unavailable, dried herbs can substitute, but use about one-third of the amount as dried herbs have a stronger flavor.

How Do You Cook Cod Perfectly Without Overcooking It?

Cooking cod can be tricky since it can quickly become dry. Here’s a simple guide:

• Start with patting the fillets dry. This helps them sear beautifully in the skillet.
• Use medium-high heat to get that nice golden color. Keep an eye on the fish; about 3-4 minutes per side should do the trick!
• Check for doneness: cod is ready when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
• Remove it from heat as soon as it’s done; it will continue cooking a bit more off the heat. This way, it’ll stay moist and tender.

Following these tips will help ensure your cod comes out perfect every time!

How to Make Easy Cod in Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow if possible)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced (green parts only)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to have this delicious cod dish ready to serve. Quick and easy for a weeknight dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cod:

Start by patting the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. This helps to get a nice sear! Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper for flavor.

2. Cook the Cod:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the cod fillets. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they turn golden and easily release from the skillet. Flip the fillets gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they appear opaque and are cooked through. Once done, remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate.

3. Make the Tomato Sauce:

Now, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell the delicious garlic aroma but be careful not to burn it. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and let them cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to release their juices.

4. Create the Flavorful Sauce:

Add the butter, lemon juice, and zest to the skillet. Stir gently until the butter melts and combines with the tomatoes to form a lovely sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley, basil, scallions, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Let everything simmer together for another minute to blend the flavors.

5. Combine and Serve!

Return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet and spoon some of that delicious sauce over the top. Warm everything together for just 1-2 minutes. Now it’s ready to serve! Plate the cod topped with the flavorful tomato lemon butter sauce and any extra fresh herbs you like.

This delicious cod dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, some crusty bread for dipping, or a light green salad. Enjoy your flavorful, bright, and buttery cod dinner!

FAQ for Easy Cod in Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce

Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the frozen cod completely before cooking. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or quickly by placing the sealed fish in a bowl of cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking for best results.

What Can I Substitute for Cherry Tomatoes?

If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with regular diced tomatoes, about 1 cup. If using canned tomatoes, drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

How Can I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the cod in a skillet over low heat until heated through to prevent it from drying out.

Can I Make This Dish Spicier?

Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce. Adjust the spice level to your taste during the cooking process!