Go Back

Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce

A delightful blend of flaky cod and a vibrant tomato basil sauce, perfect for any occasion.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin for the best flavor
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust according to your heat preference
  • 3 large cloves garlic, finely minced use fresh for maximum flavor
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half the sweeter, the better!
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided the acidity will brighten the dish
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped a must for that Mediterranean flair
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest for an extra punch
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar to balance the acidity
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper more to taste
For the cod
  • 1.5 pounds fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets look for skinless, boneless for simplicity
  • 1-2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
  • additional salt and pepper for seasoning

Method
 

Prepare the Sauce
  1. In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Once hot, add the crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 9-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to blister and soften.
  4. Stir in the vegetable broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, letting the mixture simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add the chopped basil, remaining lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes before removing from heat. Set aside.
Cook the Cod
  1. In another large skillet, heat 1-2 tablespoons more olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Season each cod fillet generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Once the oil is hot, add the cod fillets into the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and flaky.
  4. The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork—this is your cue that it’s perfectly cooked!
Combine and Serve
  1. Pour the delicious tomato basil sauce over the cooked cod, allowing it to warm through for about a minute.
  2. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Using high-quality, fresh ingredients is crucial for this recipe—especially for the cod and tomatoes. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried ones can work in a pinch, although fresh is always preferred for flavor and appearance. Leftover cod can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tomato basil sauce can be made a day ahead; just store it in a covered container and reheat before serving.