The Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter Recipe is a delightful seafood dish that packs vibrant colors and fresh flavors into every bite. This recipe beautifully showcases tender cod fillets topped with a luscious mix of juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic herb butter, making it a perfect harmony of lightness and richness. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this dish brings simplicity and elegance together, promising a satisfying meal filled with freshness and a touch of zest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to enhance the natural flavor of cod and bring brightness to the plate. From the silky butter infused with fresh herbs to the sweet and tangy burst of cherry tomatoes, these essentials create a dish that is both tasty and visually appealing.
- Cod fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets about 6 ounces each for the best texture and mild flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the delicate seafood taste.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity note and helps sear the fish to a delicate golden brown.
- Cherry tomatoes: Provide juiciness and a vibrant pop of color when halved and cooked.
- Garlic cloves: Minced for an aromatic depth that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Softened and infused with herbs to create the rich, flavorful herb butter topping.
- Fresh basil and parsley: Chopped to add herbal brightness and a fresh, green contrast.
- Lemon zest and juice: Give a lively citrus kick that cuts through the richness and lifts the dish beautifully.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): For garnish, adding a colorful and aromatic finishing touch.
How to Make Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Season each cod fillet generously with salt and pepper on both sides to ensure the natural flavors shine through after cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Cod
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and sear them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This quick searing locks in moisture and flavor. After searing, transfer the fillets carefully to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Cook the Tomato and Garlic Mix
Using the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic, cooking them gently for 3 to 4 minutes. This softens the tomatoes, releasing their sweet juices, and mingles their flavors with the garlic for that mouthwatering aroma.
Step 4: Make the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter with freshly chopped basil and parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This herbed butter adds a creamy, fragrant layer to the dish that melts delectably over the hot cod, tying together the taste of the sea and garden-fresh ingredients.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Generously spoon the warm tomato and garlic mixture over each cod fillet sitting on the baking sheet. Follow by dolloping the vibrant herb butter on top, allowing it to slowly melt while baking. Pop the entire tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Step 6: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, you can garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of green and fragrance. Serve immediately to enjoy the cod at its tender, juicy best alongside the rich tomato and herb butter sauce.
How to Serve Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh basil leaves add a pop of color and a burst of fresh herbal scent that complements the earthy tomato and buttery cod perfectly. You can also add a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a thin lemon wedge on the side for extra brightness.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides such as steamed asparagus, a crisp green salad, or fluffy couscous infused with lemon zest. Creamy mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes also work beautifully, soaking up the flavorful herb butter and tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the cod fillets on warm plates with a border of roasted cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of melted herb butter. Alternatively, present each serving in a shallow bowl with the tomato-herb butter mixture spooned generously over the fish, highlighting the vibrant colors and inviting aroma.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cod with tomato and herb butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best eaten within 2 days to enjoy the freshness of the herbs and avoid sogginess in the fish.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month; be aware that texture changes might occur in the fish and tomato sauce once thawed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) until warmed through to avoid drying out the cod. Alternatively, microwave on a low power setting in short intervals, stirring the tomato and herb butter mixture to evenly distribute heat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets; just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to get a nice sear and avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for fresh herbs if I don’t have them?
If fresh basil and parsley aren’t available, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity to about one-third, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a high-quality dairy-free spread or olive oil mixed with extra herbs and lemon zest to maintain the rich, flavorful topping without dairy.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Overcooking can dry it out, so check at the 10-minute mark to ensure tender results.
Can I prepare the herb butter in advance?
Yes, preparing the herb butter ahead of time is a great idea. Store it in the refrigerator wrapped tightly, and bring it to room temperature before assembling the dish for easier spreading and melting.
Final Thoughts
This Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels special yet is so approachable to make. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques results in a meal that’s bursting with flavor and warmth. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joy of this delicious seafood creation in your own kitchen.
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Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and simple baked cod recipe featuring seared cod fillets topped with a flavorful tomato and herb butter mixture, delivering a fresh and zesty seafood dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Tomato and Herb Butter
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Garnish
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Season the Fish: Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Cod Fillets: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each cod fillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden-brown crust. Then transfer the seared fillets to the prepared baking sheet.
- Cook Tomato and Garlic Mixture: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and begin releasing their juicy flavors.
- Prepare Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with chopped fresh basil, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well to distribute the herbs and citrus flavors evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the cooked tomato and garlic mixture evenly over the cod fillets on the baking sheet. Top each fillet with dollops of the prepared herb butter to infuse extra flavor during baking.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cod flakes easily with a fork, indicating it’s cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Ensure the cod fillets are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
- You can substitute parsley or basil with other fresh herbs like thyme or dill for variation.
- If cod is not available, other firm white fish such as haddock or halibut can be used.
- Make sure not to overcook the cod to keep it moist and tender.
- The tomato and herb butter sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to a day.
