Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil (Print)

Succulent cod fillets seared golden brown, served in a vibrant cherry tomato and fresh basil sauce with Mediterranean flair.

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for cod

→ For the Sauce

02 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
03 - 3 large cloves garlic, finely minced
04 - 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1/4 cup vegetable broth
06 - 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, divided
07 - 1/2 cup fresh basil, finely chopped
08 - 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
10 - 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
11 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste

→ For the Fish

12 - 680g (1.5 pounds) fresh cod, cut into 4 fillets
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add red pepper flakes and garlic, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until soft and blistering, about 9-12 minutes.
02 - Stir in vegetable broth and 1 tablespoon lemon juice, letting mixture simmer gently. Add basil, remaining 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for 2 minutes more, then set aside.
03 - Heat olive oil in another pan over medium heat. Season cod fillets generously with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
04 - Pour the tomato basil sauce over the seared cod, warm together for one minute to marry the flavors, then serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, pat cod fillets dry before seasoning to ensure a golden sear.
02 - The sauce can be made ahead and reheated when ready to cook the fish.