Ingredients
White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce
- 2 tablespoons (28ml) olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 3 large cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1/4 cup (57ml) dry white wine (plus an optional 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 1/2 pounds fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets
- Salt and pepper, to season
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic, then sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is aromatic but not browned.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are soft and blistered but still hold their shape, about 8 to 12 minutes.
- Simmer with Wine and Herbs: Pour in 1/4 cup of dry white wine and stir. Allow the mixture to gently simmer. Stir in fresh basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook the sauce for an additional 2 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Set Sauce Aside: Transfer the finished sauce to a bowl and set aside until ready to serve.
- Cook the Cod: In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the hot oil and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the prepared white wine tomato basil sauce over the cooked cod in the skillet. Let the sauce warm for about a minute with the fish, then remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh cod fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a saucier dish, add an extra 1/4 cup of dry white wine when making the sauce.
- Ensure the garlic does not brown to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Patting the cod dry before cooking helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Serve with crusty bread or a light salad to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
