Pan-Seared Cod Recipe with Tomato Basil Sauce
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Introduction
If you're looking for an easy yet elegant seafood dinner, this Pan-Seared Cod with White Wine, Tomato & Basil Sauce is the perfect choice. Tender cod fillets are pan-fried until beautifully golden before being topped with a light, flavour-packed sauce made with sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil and a splash of white wine. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a simple recipe that's ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions.
For the white wine and basil sauce
- 2 tablespoons (28ml) olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 large cloves of garlic finely minced
- 1 pint juicy cherry tomatoes sliced in half
- 1/4 cup (57ml) dry white wine *add an extra 1/4 cup for a saucier sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh basil finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons (28ml) 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 (28ml) olive oil
- 1 and 1/2 pounds fresh cod cut into 4 fillets
- Salt and pepper
Method
Prepare the White Wine Tomato & Basil Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the garlic and chilli flakes, cooking gently for around a minute until fragrant.
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 8–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and burst while still keeping their shape.
Pour in the white wine and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the chopped basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, sugar, salt and black pepper. Allow the sauce to bubble gently for a further 2 minutes, then taste and adjust the seasoning if required. Transfer the sauce to a bowl and keep warm.
Cook the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with kitchen paper and season generously with salt and pepper.
Heat a little olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Place the cod into the pan and cook for around 3 minutes until the underside is beautifully golden. Carefully turn each fillet over and cook for a further 3–4 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily and is cooked through.
Return the tomato and basil sauce to the pan, spooning it over the cod. Warm everything together for about a minute before serving immediately with your favourite sides, such as buttered new potatoes, crusty bread or seasonal vegetables.
Ready to Cook?
The secret to this dish is starting with the freshest cod. Our premium cod fillets are responsibly sourced, expertly prepared and delivered straight to your door, making it easy to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home.