Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this pan seared cod in white wine tomato basil sauce! It’s like a little piece of heaven on a plate. The cod is perfectly flaky and juicy, seared to golden perfection, and then nestled in this vibrant, rich sauce that’s bursting with the fresh flavors of garlic, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil. Honestly, the combination of the white wine and lemon juice creates a beautiful depth that just sings in your mouth. This dish is special to me because it’s one of those meals that brings back memories of cozy dinners with family, laughter, and a glass of wine in hand. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too!
Ingredients List
- 4 cod fillets (fresh, skinless, about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin for the best flavor)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (sweet and juicy, they add a burst of flavor)
- 1 cup white wine (I love using a dry variety like Sauvignon Blanc)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is key for that aromatic kick)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (the more, the merrier for that herby goodness!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy; season it well!)
- 1 lemon, juiced (adds a bright, zesty note to the sauce)
How to Prepare Pan Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce
Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this delightful dish! It’s a straightforward process, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly it all comes together. Trust me, you’re gonna impress everyone at the table!
Step 1: Sear the Cod
First things first, let’s get that cod ready! Heat up your olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want to make sure the oil is nice and hot, so it gives the cod that beautiful golden crust. While it’s heating, season your cod fillets generously with salt and pepper—don’t be shy! Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the cod in the pan. Sear it for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that gorgeous golden-brown color. When it’s done, carefully remove the cod and set it aside on a plate while we work on that luscious sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Now, let’s bring some incredible flavors into the pan! In the same pan, add your minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes. You’ll want to cook these for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to soften and burst—oh, the aroma is just divine! This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The garlic adds a wonderful fragrance, and those tomatoes will release their juices, creating a flavor-packed base for our sauce.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Next up, it’s time to make this sauce sing! Pour in the white wine and the fresh lemon juice, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step helps to cook off the alcohol and concentrate those flavors. Now, stir in the chopped basil—it’ll add such a fresh and vibrant touch! Now, it’s time to bring back our seared cod. Gently return the cod to the pan, spooning some of that heavenly sauce over it. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes until the cod is completely cooked through and coated in that beautiful sauce. And voilà—your pan seared cod in white wine tomato basil sauce is ready to shine on your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: It comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of white wine, garlic, and fresh basil creates a sauce that’s both rich and vibrant.
- Healthy Dish: Cod is a lean protein and packed with nutrients, making this dish a healthy choice for any meal.
- Impressive Presentation: The bright colors of the cherry tomatoes and fresh basil make this dish a showstopper on your table.
- Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!
Trust me, this recipe will not only satisfy your taste buds but also become a go-to in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
To make sure your pan seared cod in white wine tomato basil sauce turns out perfectly, I’ve got a few handy tips! First, always use fresh ingredients—fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes can really elevate the flavor. When searing your cod, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the fish; this helps achieve that lovely golden crust. And don’t overcrowd the pan; if you’re cooking more than 4 fillets, do it in batches to ensure even cooking. Also, keep an eye on the timing—cod cooks quickly, so you want to avoid overcooking it, which can make it dry. Lastly, taste your sauce as you go; adjusting the seasoning is key to bringing out those delicious flavors. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the scoop on the nutritional values for my pan seared cod in white wine tomato basil sauce! Each serving, which consists of one fillet with that delicious sauce, packs about 320 calories. You’re getting 14 grams of fat, with only 2 grams of saturated fat—pretty heart-friendly! Plus, it’s loaded with 35 grams of protein, making it a great option for a healthy meal. With just 8 grams of carbs and 1 gram of fiber, it’s a wholesome dish that won’t weigh you down. Enjoy guilt-free indulgence with every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. It’s best to pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with that nice sear.
What type of white wine is best for cooking?
I recommend using a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These varieties complement the flavors of the dish without overwhelming it. Just remember, don’t use a wine you wouldn’t drink!
Can I substitute the cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! You can use regular diced tomatoes or even canned tomatoes if that’s what you have on hand. Just drain the canned ones a bit to avoid excess liquid in your sauce.
How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?
The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). It should look opaque and no longer translucent. Keep a close eye on it to avoid overcooking!
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so you’re already in the clear. Enjoy it without any worries about hidden dairy ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Don’t worry, your pan seared cod in white wine tomato basil sauce can be stored easily! First, let the dish cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you want to save it for later, you can also freeze it for about a month, but be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
When it’s time to reheat, I recommend gently warming it on the stovetop over low heat. This way, you’ll keep that lovely sauce intact and avoid overcooking the cod. Just cover the pan with a lid and stir occasionally until heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave, but do so in short bursts to ensure it doesn’t dry out. Enjoy every bite again!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving my pan seared cod in white wine tomato basil sauce, the options are endless, and I love to get a little creative! One of my favorite pairings is a warm, crusty baguette or some freshly baked ciabatta—perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce! If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, like linguine or spaghetti; the sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, making every bite delightful.
For a lighter option, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors of the dish. You could even whip up some roasted vegetables on the side for a colorful and nutritious addition. Trust me, these pairings will elevate your meal and have everyone at the table coming back for seconds!
For more information on the health benefits of cod, check out this Healthline article.
For a delicious side salad, consider trying this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe!
Print
Pan Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce Delight
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish featuring pan-seared cod in a white wine, tomato, and basil sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup white wine
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place cod in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Remove cod and set aside.
- Add garlic and cherry tomatoes to the pan, cooking until tomatoes soften.
- Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmering for 5 minutes.
- Add chopped basil and return cod to the pan.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until cod is cooked through.
Notes
- Serve with crusty bread or over pasta.
- Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: pan seared cod, white wine sauce, tomato basil sauce
