This Pan-Seared Cod dish features tender, flaky cod fillets nestled in a rich and flavorful white wine tomato basil sauce. It’s a light, healthy, and restaurant-quality meal that comes together in under 30 minutes!
Author:Beth
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Mediterranean
Ingredients
Scale
For the cod:
4 cod fillets (6 oz/170 g each)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc)
1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
½ cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup (30 g) fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Cod:
Season the fish:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Sear the fish:
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the cod from the skillet and set aside.
Pour in the white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add tomatoes and broth:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar (if needed), and chicken or vegetable broth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to thicken slightly.
Add basil and season:
Stir in the chopped basil and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve:
Return cod to the skillet:
Place the seared cod fillets back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let the fish simmer gently in the sauce for 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve:
Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh basil if desired. Pair with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
Substitute cod with another firm white fish like haddock, halibut, or sea bass.
Use fresh cherry tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher flavor.
For a dairy-free option, omit the butter when searing the cod.