Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients
- For the cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- For the tomato basil sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Cod:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cod fillets to the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the fish is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
- Make the Tomato Basil Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, and white wine (if using).
- Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the fresh basil, capers (if using), and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cod fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the tomato basil sauce.
- Spoon some of the sauce over the fish and cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Serve the cod fillets topped with the tomato basil sauce, alongside rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Enjoy your Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce!