Name: Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup dry white wine (or vegetable broth); 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Lemon wedges for serving

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If you’re in the mood for a quick and healthy dinner that screams fresh flavor with minimal fuss, look no further than Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce. This vibrant dish brings together tender, pan-seared cod, a garlicky tomato sauce bursting with basil, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. Trust me, it’s one of those meals you’ll find yourself craving again and again—simple enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the beauty of this recipe: every ingredient plays a starring role in delivering color, zing, and pure Mediterranean comfort. Using pantry staples with a few fresh touches, Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is all about harmony on the plate—each bite is bright, light, and deeply satisfying.

Cod fillets (4, about 6 ounces each): Mild, flaky cod is the ideal canvas for a robust tomato and basil sauce.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For juicy, golden searing and to build that beautiful flavor base.
Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness that mellows the tangy tomatoes.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Essential Mediterranean punch, infusing the sauce with warmth and depth.
Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): The heart of the sauce—choose high-quality for a richer flavor.
Dry white wine (1/4 cup) or vegetable broth: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and adds a gentle lift; either will work!
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon): Just a hint of heat to brighten the sauce without overpowering the fish.
Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): A nod to the Mediterranean, lending earthiness and fragrance.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Let the flavors pop—don’t be shy!
Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped): A final hit of herbal freshness that ties the whole dish together.
Lemon wedges for serving: Because a squeeze of lemon is the perfect finishing touch for seafood and sauce alike.

How to Make Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce

Step 1: Prep and Season the Cod

Begin by gently patting your cod fillets dry with paper towels. This ensures the fillets will brown beautifully in the pan, not steam. Give both sides a generous sprinkle of salt and black pepper—seasoning the fish beforehand lets the flavors penetrate while you tackle the other steps.

Step 2: Sear the Cod

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Lay the seasoned cod fillets into the hot oil and let them sizzle for 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re looking for just a hint of golden crust, not to cook the fish through. Gently transfer the cod to a plate—you’ll finish them in the sauce soon.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the finely chopped onion, and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook for 30 seconds so its aroma blooms and infuses the oil. This quick step is the foundation for all the Mediterranean flavors to come.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Basil Sauce

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all), then add the white wine or broth, crushed red pepper flakes, and oregano. Stir and let this mixture simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes. The sauce will thicken just enough and all those flavors—savory, tangy, herbal, and spicy—will start to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer the Cod in Sauce

Nestle the seared cod fillets back into the skillet with your luscious sauce. Spoon some sauce over each piece, cover, and let simmer for 4 to 5 minutes more, until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil all over the top and bask in how gorgeous (and aromatic) your Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce has become!

How to Serve Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce

Garnishes

Scatter a handful of extra chopped basil over the top just before serving, and always, always pass a plate of lemon wedges at the table. A quick squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors and makes the fish truly sing. If you’d like, a little drizzle of fruity olive oil never hurts either.

Side Dishes

This dish absolutely loves company! Serve your Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce over fluffy couscous, nutty quinoa, tender orzo, or even creamy polenta. A crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar also makes a fabulous pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, spoon the cod and tomato basil sauce over toasted sourdough or rustic bread for a Mediterranean-style open-faced sandwich. Or serve it family-style in a big shallow platter, letting everyone help themselves to fillets and plenty of vibrant sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce keeps nicely in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store everything together in an airtight container, so the fish stays moist and soaks up even more flavor from the sauce.

Freezing

It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, since cod can change texture when frozen and reheated. If needed, you can freeze the tomato basil sauce by itself for up to 3 months: let it cool, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and thaw in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh fish.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, spooning sauce over the cod as it heats to keep it from drying out. You can add a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.

FAQs

Can I substitute another fish for cod?

Absolutely! You can make Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce with other firm white fish like halibut or haddock. Just adjust cooking times if fillets are thicker or thinner than cod.

Do I need to use wine, or is there a good alternative?

Wine adds wonderful depth, but you can swap in vegetable broth or even a splash of water and a squeeze of lemon. The recipe will still be delicious and suitable for all tastes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free grains or sides if you’re avoiding gluten altogether.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The tomato basil sauce can be made up to two days in advance and kept in the fridge. When ready to eat, just reheat the sauce, then cook and add your cod fillets right before serving.

How spicy is this dish?

The crushed red pepper flakes add only a mild heat; feel free to dial it up or down according to your preference. Leave it out entirely for a family-friendly, gentle version.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an easy, flavor-packed dinner that looks as good as it tastes, this Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce will hit the spot every time. Give it a try soon—the bright sauce, tender fish, and fresh basil are sure to make you smile!

Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe

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4.9 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Delight in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce recipe. Tender cod fillets are seared to perfection and then simmered in a savory tomato basil sauce, creating a dish that is both light and satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

Cod Fillets:

4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)

Tomato Basil Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1/4 cup dry white wine (or vegetable broth)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry, season with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil until lightly golden. Set aside.
Make the Tomato Basil Sauce: Sauté onion, garlic. Add tomatoes, wine, spices. Simmer, then return cod to the skillet and cook until done.
Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with basil and serve with lemon wedges.