Fresh, fragrant, and bursting with Mediterranean sunshine — this Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce is a true celebration of coastal simplicity. 🌿🐟
Golden, pan-seared cod fillets rest in a rustic tomato and basil sauce that’s light yet full of depth. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of tender fish, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic garlic — all kissed by the richness of olive oil. The basil adds that unmistakable Mediterranean freshness, while a hint of natural acidity from the tomatoes makes every mouthful vibrant and satisfying.
This dish is the essence of effortless elegance: it’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but sophisticated enough to impress at a dinner party. Pair it with crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice to soak up the luscious sauce — and you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal that transports you straight to the shores of southern Italy. 🇮🇹🍅
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skinless and boneless
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour, for light dusting
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (preferably multicolored for beauty and sweetness)
- ½ cup vegetable broth (or fish stock for deeper flavor)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for depth
Directions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Cod — The Golden Foundation
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture — this ensures a perfect golden crust when searing.
Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Lightly dust each fillet with flour, shaking off the excess. The flour not only helps the fish crisp up beautifully but also thickens the sauce later, creating that luxurious Mediterranean texture.
💡 Tip: Use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the flour evenly — it prevents clumping and gives a professional finish.
2️⃣ Sear the Cod — Lock in the Tender Juiciness
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Gently place the cod fillets in the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded (cook in batches if necessary).
Sear for 3–4 minutes per side, turning carefully with a fish spatula, until each fillet turns a beautiful golden brown. The fish should release easily from the pan once it’s perfectly seared.
Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside on a warm plate — it will finish cooking in the sauce later.
💡 Tip: Do not move the fish while it’s searing. Let it form that golden crust — patience pays off here!
3️⃣ Build the Aromatic Base — The Heart of the Mediterranean
In the same skillet (don’t clean it — those golden bits are flavor gems), add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Now, toss in the cherry tomatoes. Let them cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to blister and release their sweet juices. The sauce should begin to take on a rich, rustic aroma — the kind that instantly transports you to a seaside trattoria.
💡 Optional Step: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance their sweetness.
4️⃣ Simmer the Sauce — Infuse and Deepen the Flavors
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Allow the sauce to reduce by half, about 5 minutes, until it slightly thickens and the flavors meld together. Stir in half of the chopped basil — this adds a burst of freshness and aroma while the sauce cooks.
💡 Tip: For a more luxurious sauce, add a teaspoon of butter at this stage and swirl it into the mixture for a velvety finish.
5️⃣ Return the Cod — The Perfect Union
Carefully return the seared cod fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the simmering tomato-basil sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of each piece.
Cover and let simmer on low heat for 5–7 minutes, until the cod is tender, flaky, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C).
As the cod finishes, it absorbs the essence of the tomato and basil, turning every bite into a delicate balance of savory, tangy, and fresh.
6️⃣ Finish and Serve — Bright, Fresh, and Elegant
Remove from heat and sprinkle the remaining fresh basil on top for a fragrant burst of green. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Plate the cod fillets carefully and spoon the tomato-basil sauce generously over each piece. Garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few basil leaves for that finishing Mediterranean touch.
Serve immediately with crusty bread, herbed rice, or roasted vegetables.
💡 Pairing Tip: A crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) or sparkling lemonade pairs beautifully with this dish.
Chef’s Notes:
- Fish Options: You can use halibut, haddock, or sea bass instead of cod — all work beautifully.
- Make It Spicy: Add a small pinch of red chili flakes while sautéing the garlic for a fiery kick.
- Extra Creamy Variation: Stir in a tablespoon of cream or butter at the end for a silkier sauce.
- Herb Variations: Swap basil for parsley or oregano for a different Mediterranean profile.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be made a day in advance and reheated before adding the fish.
⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 20 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 4
💫 Calories: 230 kcal per serving