When you crave a light yet flavorful seafood dish that brings the aromas of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen, Succulent Cod in Tomato Basil is the perfect choice. With its tender, flaky fish and aromatic sauce of tomatoes, garlic, and basil, every bite feels like sunshine on your plate.
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🍅 Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe isn’t just about fish — it’s about balance and simplicity. The cod is gently simmered in a tangy tomato and white wine sauce, creating a flavor harmony that’s elegant yet effortless. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner, a weeknight meal, or a dinner-party centerpiece, this dish impresses every time.
🐟 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- Lemon wedges, for serving
🔥 Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant — this step releases the beautiful base flavor of your sauce.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Pour in stirring gently for one minute to deglaze the pan. Then, add diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors blend perfectly.
Step 3: Cook the Cod
Carefully place your cod fillets into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The sauce will infuse the cod with its rich tomato-.
Step 4: Finish with Butter and Basil
Stir in butter and fresh chopped basil. The butter adds a silky texture, while the basil delivers that fresh Mediterranean aroma.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Plate your cod and spoon over plenty of the fragrant sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges for a zesty finish. Serve with crusty bread, rice, or even angel hair pasta to soak up the sauce.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the citrusy, herby notes. Add a simple side salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and shaved parmesan for a complete, restaurant-style meal at home.
⚖️ Nutrition & Calorie Breakdown
| Component | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cod (6 oz) | 138 | 30g | 0g | 1g |
| Olive Oil (2 tbsp) | 239 | 0g | 0g | 27g |
| Diced Tomatoes (1 can) | 60 | 3g | 14g | 0g |
| _ | _ | _ | _ | _ |
| Butter (1 tbsp) | 102 | 0g | 0g | 11g |
| Basil & Spices | 5 | 0g | 1g | 0g |
| Total (Per Serving) | ~325 kcal | 33g | 4g | 9g |
✅ Light, healthy, and bursting with flavor — this meal delivers rich taste without the guilt!
💡 Chef’s Tip
For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of lemon juice just before serving or sprinkle some Parmesan shavings on top. Want a heartier version? Toss in a few olives or capers for a briny twist.
🌿 Final Thoughts
This Succulent Cod in Tomato Basil recipe is the definition of simple elegance. It transforms a few humble ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish that’s fresh, light, and deeply satisfying. Perfect for anyone who wants a healthy seafood dinner that tastes gourmet without the fuss.
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