Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Once the pan is hot, add the cod fillets. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the cod from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they begin to soften and release their juices.
3. Add the lemon slices and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Return the Cod to the Sauce

1. Gently place the cooked cod fillets back into the skillet with the tomato lemon butter sauce. Spoon the sauce over the fish and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the cod to soak up the flavors.

Step 4: Serve

1. Carefully transfer the cod fillets to serving plates, and spoon the tomato lemon butter sauce over the top.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve with extra lemon wedges if desired.

Tips for Success

• Choose Fresh Cod: Fresh cod has a delicate, mild flavor that’s perfect for this dish. If fresh cod isn’t available, frozen cod will work well—just thaw it completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Cod cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: For added depth, toss in a handful of spinach or a few capers for a briny pop of flavor. You can also add a splash of white wine for a more robust sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a green salad or steamed asparagus.

Conclusion

Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce is a delightful way to enjoy seafood at home. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this dish brings together the elegance of a restaurant meal with the comfort of home cooking. Try this recipe next time you want a simple yet sophisticated seafood dinner that’s bound to impress!

Feel free to add your personal touch or tweak the ingredients to make it your own. Enjoy preparing and sharing this delightful dish!