If you're looking to elevate your weeknight dinner with a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, look no further than this Cod in Tomato Garlic Sauce! This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender, flaky cod fillets with a rich and aromatic tomato-garlic sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. In just 25 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in a cozy night at home. Ready to discover the secret to this mouthwatering dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the cod fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir well to combine the tomatoes with the garlic and olive oil. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Sprinkle the dried oregano into the tomato and garlic mixture. Stir again to incorporate the oregano, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 2-3 minutes.
- Gently place the seasoned cod fillets into the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the fillets to ensure they are well-coated.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cod cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets.
- Once the cod is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, transfer the cod fillets to plates and spoon the tomato garlic sauce generously over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
- Enjoy your delicious Cod in Tomato Garlic Sauce with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of pasta or rice, if desired.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cod: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh cod fillets if available. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Sauté the minced garlic until it's just golden to release its natural sweetness. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter and ruin the sauce.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the tomato and garlic mixture to simmer for a few minutes before adding the cod. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, creating a more robust sauce.
- Check for Doneness: Cod is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can make the fish tough.
- Experiment with Herbs: While oregano is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or parsley for a unique twist.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. Consider a simple green salad to round out the meal and add freshness.
- Garnish for Presentation: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor of the dish. Don’t skip this step for a restaurant-style finish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
