Description
Treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal with this Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce. Tender, flaky cod fillets are pan-seared to golden perfection and nestled in a rich, garlicky tomato-basil sauce infused with white wine. Simple, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for weeknights or a special dinner.
Ingredients
- For the Cod:
- Cod fillets (4–6 ounces each, skinless or skin-on)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- All-purpose flour (optional, for dredging)
- Olive oil
- Butter (optional, for added richness)
For the Sauce:
- Olive oil
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved) or 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp sear.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- (Optional) Lightly dredge the fillets in flour, shaking off any excess for a thin, golden crust.
- Pan-Sear the Cod
- Heat olive oil and butter (if using) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the cod fillets in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The fish should flake easily with a fork.
- Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Add the cherry tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
- Deglaze and Simmer
- Pour in the white wine and broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and develop a rich flavor.
- Finish the Sauce
- Stir in the chopped fresh basil and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve
- Return the seared cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top.
- Let the fillets simmer gently in the sauce for about 2 minutes to warm through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil.
Notes
-
- Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with additional chicken broth and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for acidity.
- Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a fiery kick.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent the cod from drying out.
- Customization: Swap cod with haddock, tilapia, or halibut for a similar result.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired