Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Sauce is the perfect combination of light, healthy, and flavorful. The cod is a mild, flaky fish that absorbs the rich, tangy flavors of the tomato sauce and the acidity of the white wine. The sauce adds depth with garlic, shallots, and fresh herbs, creating a balance of savory, sweet, and slightly acidic flavors that complement the fish beautifully. It’s a quick, easy, and sophisticated meal that’s sure to become a go-to recipe for fish lovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for extra crispiness)

For the White Wine Tomato Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 shallot, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

• 1 teaspoon fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Directions

Preparing the Cod:

1. Season the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the fish sear better. Season both sides with salt and pepper. If you prefer a slightly crispier coating, lightly dust the fillets with flour.

2. Pan-sear the cod: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cod fillets to the pan. Cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C), and the fish should flake easily with a fork. Remove the fish from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Making the White Wine Tomato Sauce:

1. Sauté the shallots and garlic: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat over medium heat and add the finely chopped shallot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

2. Add the tomatoes and wine: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and white wine. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld together.

3. Finish the sauce: Stir in the fresh thyme, and season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). For a little richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and the sauce becomes silky smooth.

Assembling the Dish:

1. Return the cod to the skillet: Once the sauce has thickened and is well-seasoned, return the seared cod fillets to the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the fish, and let it simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to reheat the fish and let the flavors meld.

2. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh basil or additional thyme over the top of the fish for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately.

Serving:

Serve the Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Sauce over a bed of rice, alongside roasted vegetables, or with pasta for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a crisp white wine for a perfect accompaniment.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Cod: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce for extra heat.

• Herb Variations: Use fresh oregano, rosemary, or parsley in place of thyme and basil for different flavor profiles.

• Other Fish: While cod is mild and flaky, you can substitute it with other white fish such as halibut, tilapia, or sole.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover cod and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the cod and sauce in a skillet over low heat, or microwave it gently, being careful not to overcook the fish. You can add a splash of water or broth if the sauce needs to be loosened.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, frozen cod can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking. This will help achieve a nice sear on the fish.

What kind of white wine should I use for the sauce?

A dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works best for the sauce. Choose a wine that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor will be incorporated into the sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving with freshly cooked cod.

What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Sauce is a light, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender cod, rich sauce, and earthy mushrooms (if added) create a mouthwatering combination that’s both elegant and comforting. Quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this cod recipe will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds.

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