Pan-Seared Cod with White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce: A Gourmet Delight

Elevate your dinner with this Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce. This dish features tender, flaky cod fillets cooked to perfection and smothered in a flavorful sauce made with cherry tomatoes, white wine, and fresh basil. It’s an elegant and delicious meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare.

My family can’t get enough of this Pan-Seared Cod with White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce! The first time I made it, the kitchen filled with the tantalizing aroma of garlic and fresh basil. My husband was immediately intrigued and couldn’t wait to taste it. Now, this dish has become a staple in our household, especially for special occasions or when we want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. The fresh, vibrant flavors of the tomato basil sauce perfectly complement the succulent cod, making each bite a delightful experience. It’s a recipe that brings a touch of elegance to our dinner table and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Pan-Seared Cod with White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce?

• Restaurant-Quality: Brings gourmet flavors to your home kitchen.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Healthy and Light: Cod is a lean source of protein, and the sauce is made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
• Flavorful: The combination of white wine, cherry tomatoes, and basil creates a sauce that is both rich and refreshing.

Ingredients:

For the White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons (28ml) olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon (0.6g) crushed red pepper flakes
• 3 large cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 pint (300g) juicy cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
• 1/4 cup (57ml) dry white wine
• 1/2 cup (20g) fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons (28ml) fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) fresh lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon (2g) salt (more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon (4g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) fresh ground black pepper (more to taste)

For the Cod:

• 2 tablespoons (28ml) olive oil
• 1.5 pounds (680g) fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

For the White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce:

1. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, warm the olive oil.
2. Add the crushed red pepper flakes and garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and blistering but still hold their shape, about 8-12 minutes.
4. Pour in the white wine, stir, and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Transfer the sauce to a bowl and set aside.

For the Cod:

1. Heat olive oil in a large nonstick pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Place the cod in the heated oil and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
4. Carefully flip the cod over and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Pour the prepared white wine tomato basil sauce over the cod. Let the sauce warm up for a minute.
6. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes:

• Substitutions: You can use any firm white fish such as halibut or haddock if cod is not available.
• Cooking Tips: Make sure not to overcook the cod; it should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.