Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter Recipe
If you’re looking for a meal that’s as impressive as it is approachable, Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter is just what your dinner routine needs. Picture tender pieces of flaky cod, surrounded by juicy cherry tomatoes, all blanketed in a luscious mix of melted butter, fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and garlic. This dish is the culinary equivalent of a sunny day on the Mediterranean, bursting with color and flavor. It tastes restaurant-worthy, yet it’s a breeze to prepare—making it the perfect choice for both weeknight suppers and special gatherings. Whether you’re a seafood newcomer or an old pro, Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter is certain to earn a spot in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter shine is that there’s nothing fussy about the ingredient list. Each element is carefully chosen to ensure the perfect balance of texture, aroma, and freshness—resulting in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.
- Cod Fillets: The star of the show, these mild, flaky fillets soak up every ounce of herby, buttery flavor.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps the fish get a gorgeous golden sear before baking.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the cod and the tomatoes.
- Unsalted Butter (softened): Creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth herb topping that elevates the entire dish.
- Fresh Parsley: Offers a pop of green and a fresh, clean bite to the herby butter.
- Fresh Basil: Lends a sweet, peppery brightness—don’t substitute with dried if you can help it!
- Fresh Thyme: Gives depth and a delicate earthy note to the butter mixture.
- Garlic Clove (minced): Infuses the butter with rich, aromatic undertones.
- Cherry Tomatoes (halved): Their sweet juiciness is the perfect juicy contrast to buttery cod.
- Lemon Zest: Provides bold, citrusy aroma and lifts the overall flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Finishes the dish with a tangy zing and balances the butter’s richness.
- Optional Garnish: A sprinkle of extra herbs or lemon wedges makes for an eye-catching presentation and extra flavor.
How to Make Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready as soon as you need it. Line a baking dish with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking but also makes clean-up a breeze, letting you focus on the fun part: cooking and eating Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter!
Step 2: Dry and Season the Cod
Pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels. This is a small but crucial step; starting with dry fish means you’ll get that lovely golden sear rather than letting the fillets steam. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt and pepper, making sure every bite will be loaded with flavor.
Step 3: Make the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mash together the softened butter with parsley, basil, thyme, minced garlic, lemon zest, and just a pinch of salt. This herby butter mixture is what turns simple cod into Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter magic. It’s fragrant, zippy, and melts beautifully over the fish.
Step 4: Sear the Cod
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the cod fillets and sear them for 2 minutes on each side. The goal isn’t to cook them through—just to build that gorgeous color and a hint of crispness on the outside.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the seared cod to your parchment-lined baking dish. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes all around the fish, letting their juices mingle during baking. Dollop the herb butter generously over each piece of cod, then slide everything into the oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
As soon as the fish comes out of the oven, drizzle it with lemon juice for that essential spark of acidity. Toss on a handful of fresh herbs or some lemon wedges for garnish if you like, and serve immediately. The vibrant combination of flavors and colors is what makes Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter irresistible.
How to Serve Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter
Garnishes
A quick sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil instantly makes the plate pop with color and fragrance. For a little extra brightness, add a couple of lemon wedges on the side—guests can squeeze their own just before digging in. Even a light drizzle of good olive oil can give your Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter an added touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
This dish loves to be paired with simple sides that soak up all those delectable juices. Fluffy rice, couscous, or warm quinoa will absorb that tomato and herb butter like a dream. If you prefer something lighter, serve it with a crisp green salad or some simply roasted vegetables for a wholesome Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style meal, arrange the cod and tomatoes on a large platter, let the herby butter melt over everything, and serve straight from the oven. Hosting a dinner party? Plate individual portions on colorful dishes with extra herbs scattered artfully over the top. Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter also works beautifully as a brunch centerpiece—just offer a basket of crusty bread for dipping into all those succulent pan juices.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen a bit overnight, making leftovers just as delightful for lunch the next day. It’s best to eat within 2 days for the freshest taste and texture.
Freezing
While cod itself freezes well, the fresh herbs and tomatoes in this dish don’t love the freezer as much. If you do need to freeze, wrap cooked, cooled cod fillets tightly in plastic wrap and stash them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before gently reheating, but keep in mind that the fresh, vibrant flavors are best enjoyed right after baking.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftover fish and tomatoes in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through. Adding a tiny splash of water or extra butter will help keep things moist. Avoid microwaving, as this can overcook and dry out the delicate cod fillets.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While cod is classic for this dish, you can easily swap in haddock, halibut, or any other mild white fish with a flaky texture. Just keep an eye on the bake time, as thinner fillets cook faster.
Is Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter gluten-free?
Yes, this whole recipe is naturally gluten-free. Simply check that any side dishes you add—like bread or grains—fit your dietary needs as well.
Can I make Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter ahead of time?
For the best texture and taste, Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter should be enjoyed fresh from the oven. However, you can prep and refrigerate the herb butter mixture and chop the tomatoes ahead, making assembly super quick when you’re ready to cook.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If you’re in a pinch, you can use dried herbs. Use about one-third the amount (since dried are more concentrated), but do try fresh if possible—they bring an unmatched vibrance to Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
The best sign is when the cod turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you have a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Overcooked fish can go dry quickly, so keep an eye on it in those last minutes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something elegant yet effortless, Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter is your new go-to recipe. With its combination of vibrant flavors and quick prep, it’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed by just how memorable and delicious this simple dish can be!
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Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter recipe. Tender cod fillets are seasoned, seared, and baked with a flavorful herb butter, cherry tomatoes, and zesty lemon. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter:
- Extra herbs or lemon wedges
Optional Garnish:
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Prepare the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry, season with salt and pepper.
- Make herb butter: Mix softened butter with parsley, basil, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, and salt.
- Sear the cod: Sear fillets in olive oil until golden, then transfer to the baking dish.
- Add tomatoes and butter: Scatter cherry tomatoes around the cod and top each fillet with herb butter.
- Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes until the cod is cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Drizzle with lemon juice, garnish, and serve hot.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or a green salad.
- Can substitute cod with haddock or halibut.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
