🐟 Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, or use vegetable broth)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted & halved
- 2 tbsp capers (optional, for tanginess)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare cod – Pat cod fillets dry, season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pan-sear fish – Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook cod fillets 3–4 minutes per side until golden and almost cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make sauce – In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic. Stir in crushed tomatoes, white wine (or broth), oregano, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Simmer 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add extras – Stir in olives, capers, and fresh basil.
- Finish cooking fish – Nestle cod fillets back into the sauce. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve – Garnish with more basil and a squeeze of lemon juice.
🍴 Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over couscous, orzo, or rice to soak up the sauce.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple Greek salad.
- For low-carb, serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.