Name: Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (6 oz/170 g each); 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc); 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes, drained; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity); ½ cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable broth; 1 cup (30 g) fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

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Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy enough to make at home. This recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets cooked to perfection and served in a flavorful tomato-based sauce infused with white wine, garlic, and fresh basil. It’s a light yet satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with crusty bread, pasta, or a simple green salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Healthy and Flavorful: A nutritious dish packed with fresh, vibrant flavors.
Versatile: Works with other white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia.
Elegant Presentation: Impress your guests with a gourmet meal that’s deceptively simple.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cod:

Cod fillets (fresh or frozen, thawed)
Salt and pepper
All-purpose flour (optional, for dredging)
Olive oil
Unsalted butter

For the Sauce:

Olive oil
Garlic cloves, minced
Cherry tomatoes (halved) or canned diced tomatoes
Dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
Chicken or vegetable broth
Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Cod:
- Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper. If desired, lightly dredge the fillets in flour, shaking off any excess.
Pan-Sear the Cod:
- Heat olive oil and butter 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. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic 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.
- Pour in the white wine and broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze. Simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the Basil and Seasonings:
- Stir in the fresh basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve:
- Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the cod simmer gently in the sauce for 2 minutes to warm through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and accompanied by your favorite side dishes.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, capers, and a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce.
Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.
Vegetable Additions: Include spinach, zucchini, or artichoke hearts for added nutrients.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced chili pepper for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out.
Freezing: The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months, but the cod is best enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

2. What type of white wine should I use?

Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay for the best flavor.

3. Can I substitute the cod with another fish?

Yes, haddock, halibut, or tilapia are excellent substitutes.

4. How do I know when the cod is cooked?

The cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.

5. Can I skip the wine?

Yes, replace the wine with additional chicken or vegetable broth and a splash of lemon juice for acidity.

6. Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, skip the flour dredging or use a gluten-free flour alternative.

7. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and reheated when ready to serve.

8. What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with crusty bread, pasta, rice, or a light salad to complement the flavors.

9. How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer the sauce a bit longer to reduce it, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

10. Can I add Parmesan cheese?

Yes, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a delicious, savory note to the dish.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce is a flavorful and elegant dish that’s deceptively simple to prepare. The tender cod pairs perfectly with the tangy, aromatic sauce, making it a go-to recipe for both special occasions and casual dinners. Try it today and savor the fresh, vibrant flavors of this Mediterranean-inspired dish!