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30 Minute Cod in Tomato Garlic Sauce

Flaky cod simmered in a bright tomato-garlic-basil sauce for an easy, flavorful weeknight meal.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound cod fillets can substitute halibut or tilapia
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika use with other spices listed
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon oil use avocado oil or other neutral oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup onion or shallot minced
  • 4-5 garlic cloves minced or finely grated
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup vegetable stock or water
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons fresh basil chopped, plus more for garnish

Instructions

  • Combine smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  • Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and generously season both sides with the spice mixture.
  • Heat the oil in a large cast iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Add the cod and cook 2 minutes per side, until lightly browned; remove the fillets and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium and add the butter and minced onion or shallot to the same pan; sauté 2–3 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook about 30 seconds, stirring, until fragrant.
  • Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften, stirring occasionally.
  • Stir in the vegetable stock (or water), fresh lemon juice, and chopped basil, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and taste for seasoning, adding more salt if needed.
  • Return the cod to the pan and simmer 3–5 minutes more, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  • Garnish with additional basil if desired and serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Cast iron pan

Notes

  • Pat fish dry for better browning.
  • Use a neutral oil like avocado for high-heat searing.
  • Halibut or tilapia can replace cod.
  • Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt.