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Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce

Easy Home Cooking
This fresh and flavorful cod dish is seared to perfection and served in a vibrant tomato basil sauce with hints of lemon, garlic, and a touch of spice. It’s a light, healthy dinner option packed with Mediterranean flair.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 270 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 3 large cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes sliced in half
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice divided as 1 tbsp for sauce, 2 tbsp for seasoning
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper more to taste
  • 1.5 pounds fresh cod cut into 4 fillets
  • Additional salt and pepper for seasoning

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
  • Add red pepper flakes and garlic; sauté for 1 minute.
  • Add cherry tomatoes; cook until soft and blistering (9-12 minutes).
  • Stir in vegetable broth and 1 tablespoon lemon juice; let it simmer gently.
  • Add basil, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, sugar, and black pepper; cook for 2 minutes, then set aside.
  • See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/pan-seared-mediterranean-cod-in-tomato-basil-sauce/

Notes

  • Pairs beautifully with couscous, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
  • For extra depth, add a splash of white wine to the sauce with the broth.
  • Can substitute halibut or tilapia if cod isn’t available.