Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce is a light yet sumptuous dish that marries the delicate flavors of fresh cod with the aromatic brightness of a white wine-infused tomato basil sauce. This recipe showcases the natural, flaky texture of the cod, beautifully seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a sauce made from ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a splash of white wine, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Ideal for a sophisticated dinner, this dish not only pleases the palate with its savory and herbaceous notes but also impresses with its elegant presentation. It’s a testament to the simplicity of ingredients coming together to create a meal that’s both nourishing and a delight to the senses.
Ingredients:
For the White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce:
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
3 large cloves garlic, finely minced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
1/4 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (more to taste)
For the Cod:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 and 1/2 pounds fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets (or four 6 ounce fillets)
Salt and pepper
Directions:
For the White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce:
Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add crushed red pepper flakes and garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until garlic is fragrant.
Add the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and blistering, but still hold their shape, 9 to 12 minutes.
Add in the white wine, stir, and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and pepper and cook for 2 minutes. Transfer the sauce into a bowl and set aside until needed.
For the Cod:
Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Pat the cod dry with paper towels. Then season both sides of cod with salt and pepper.
Place cod in the oil and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Carefully flip the cod over and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes, OR until it’s cooked through.
Pour the white wine tomato basil sauce over the cod, let the sauce warm up for a minute, then remove from heat and serve at once.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes