Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe
This Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce is a flavorful, light, and elegant dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Succulent cod fillets are perfectly pan-seared to a golden brown and topped with a vibrant sauce made from blistered cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a splash of dry white wine. The sauce is brightened with lemon juice and zest, creating a delicious balance of tangy and savory flavors that pair beautifully with the tender, flaky fish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
For the 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 extra 1/4 cup for saucier sauce, optional)
- 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 White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce: In a large sauté pan over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add crushed red pepper flakes and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are softened and blistered but still hold their shape, about 8 to 12 minutes.
- Add Wine and Seasoning: Pour in 1/4 cup dry white wine and stir. Allow the mixture to gently simmer, then stir in fresh basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for 2 more minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Set Sauce Aside: Transfer the sauce into a bowl and set it aside until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Cod: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large nonstick pan or skillet over medium heat. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Pan-Sear the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the hot oil and cook until golden brown on one side, about 3 minutes. Carefully flip the fillets and cook the other side for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the prepared white wine tomato basil sauce over the cooked cod in the pan. Let the sauce warm through for about 1 minute, then remove from heat and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a saucier sauce, add an additional 1/4 cup of white wine during the sauce preparation.
- Patting the cod dry before seasoning and cooking helps ensure a nice, golden crust.
- You can use other white fish such as halibut or sea bass if cod is unavailable.
- Serve with crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
- Adjust the heat by varying the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to your preference.
