Description
Delightful Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce brings Mediterranean coastal charm to your dinner table. Flaky cod nestles in a zesty sauce, promising a luxurious meal that whisks you straight to Italy’s sun-kissed shores.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 cod fillets (6 ounces each)
Main Cooking Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon butter
Herbs, Spices, and Seasonings:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt
- Pepper
Garnish:
- Fresh lemon wedges
Instructions
- Generously coat cod fillets with salt and pepper, ensuring even seasoning on both surfaces.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil until shimmering. Carefully place cod fillets and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, developing a golden-brown crust and ensuring complete cooking. Transfer fish to a warm plate.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium and introduce minced garlic and red pepper flakes, releasing their aromatic essence for approximately 60 seconds.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine, using a wooden spoon to extract caramelized remnants from the skillet’s bottom. Allow liquid to reduce by half, concentrating flavors.
- Incorporate diced tomatoes with their natural juices, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce develop and thicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Introduce butter and freshly chopped basil, gently stirring until butter melts completely and herbs release their fragrance. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired.
- Nestle seared cod back into the skillet, delicately coating each fillet with the vibrant sauce. Warm fish through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Present the cod elegantly, drizzled with sauce and accompanied by bright lemon wedges for a citrusy finish.
Notes
- Ensure cod is patted dry before seasoning to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent excess moisture.
- Use fresh, high-quality white fish like halibut or sea bass as alternative protein options for those with cod allergies or preferences.
- Choose a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the sauce’s brightness and complement the delicate fish flavor.
- For a low-carb and gluten-free version, skip deglazing with wine and substitute with fish stock or extra lemon juice to maintain sauce depth and acidity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg