Tomato Basil Cod
A symphony of tangy, aromatic, and earthy flavors is waiting for you, right in your own kitchen. Let’s talk about a culinary delight that combines heart-healthy cod fish with a refreshing, rich, and fragrant homemade tomato basil sauce. Made from the most simple and fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, basil leaves, lemon, garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil, this dish is a Mediterranean masterpiece that’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Unveiling the Magic of Cod
Cod is a firm-fleshed white fish, not just a bounty of the sea, but also a treasure trove of nutrition. It is light, flaky, and subtle in flavor, providing the perfect canvas for a melange of ingredients. Its high protein content, along with Omega-3 fatty acids, promotes heart health, brain function, and inflammation reduction.
The Essence of Homemade Tomato Basil Sauce
The heart and soul of this dish is undoubtedly the homemade tomato basil sauce. Tomatoes lend a delightful sweetness and tanginess, balanced by the earthy flavor of freshly picked basil leaves. The process of making this sauce from scratch allows for the ingredients to meld together perfectly, resulting in a sauce that’s greater than the sum of its parts. And the sauce you are seeing me make for this recipe comes together in sheer minutes.
The secret ingredient that ties the tomato and basil together and a good quality olive oil, providing a silky texture and an undertone of fruity, nutty flavor. The sauce is then elevated with the addition of minced garlic, which adds a punch of robust flavor that’s mellowed by the simmering process.
The Spark of Lemon, Red Pepper Flakes, and Garlic
Lemon, red pepper flakes, and more garlic (because you can never have enough) serve as the perfect trifecta to complement the dish. The lemon cuts through the richness of the sauce and cod, providing a zest that makes every bite feel new and exciting. The red pepper flakes give the dish a hint of heat, creating a depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
How it All Comes Together
The preparation of this cod in homemade tomato basil sauce is as enjoyable as the eating. Starting with the sautéing of garlic in olive oil until it turns golden, red pepper flakes next, then adding the tomatoes, basil, and lemon zest. The ingredients are simmered until they become a rich, aromatic sauce. Salt and pepper to taste.
The cod fillets are then gently nestled into the sauce and lightly simmered to perfection. As the fish absorbs the tomato-basil magic, each bite of the cod turns into a flavorful journey that is at once comforting and exciting.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner idea, a healthy meal for your family, or just a new way to enjoy seafood, this cod in homemade tomato basil sauce is the perfect recipe. So why wait? Set your table, prepare your palate, and dive into a sea of flavors with this culinary masterpiece.
Tomato Basil Cod
Ingredients
- 4 filets cods skin removed
- 3 tbsp olive oil good quality
- 1 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- red pepper flakes (I use about 1/4 tsp or less) to taste
- 1 cup grape/cherry tomatoes halved
- 3 tbsp basil leaves chopped
- 1 lemon juiced
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a sautĂ© pan over medium-low heat.Â
- Add garlic, in about 30 seconds, add crushed red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1 minute. Don't let it burn.
- Add the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re starting to soften.
- Add in the basil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, stir and cook for another minute.
- Create pockets and add the cod fillets. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes.Â
- Turn over and cook for another 3 minutes. Depending on the thickness of the cod it could need more or less time.Â
- When done, cover with the tomato sauce and enjoy!
