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
Scale
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.
