Name: Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients: Cod fillets – 4 fillets (6-8 ounces each); Salt – 1 teaspoon; Black pepper – ½ teaspoon; Olive oil – 1 tablespoon; Butter – 2 tablespoons; Garlic – 3 cloves (minced); Diced tomatoes – 1 cup (canned or fresh); Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon; Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons; White wine (optional – ¼ cup); Chicken or vegetable broth – ½ cup; Fresh parsley or basil – 2 tablespoons (chopped (for garnish))

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When I made this dish for the first time, I couldn’t believe how flavorful it turned out! The combination of tender, flaky cod nestled in a rich tomato and lemon butter sauce is simply irresistible. It’s one of those recipes that feels gourmet, yet it’s super easy to prepare right in your kitchen. I love how the bright lemony zest ties everything together, making it the perfect choice when you want something both simple and special. Trust me, the first bite will have you hooked!

Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Ingredients

Cod fillets – 4 fillets (6-8 ounces each)
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
Butter – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Diced tomatoes – 1 cup (canned or fresh)
Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons
White wine (optional) – ¼ cup
Chicken or vegetable broth – ½ cup
Fresh parsley or basil – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Note: This recipe serves 4 people.

Variations

This recipe is adaptable for different tastes and preferences! Try these variations to make it your own.

Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace white wine with extra broth for a family-friendly dish.
Add a Kick: Mix in a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy twist.
Chunkier Sauce: Use fresh, hand-chopped tomatoes instead of canned for more texture.

You can also enjoy similar Tuscan Salmon with Parmesan Cream Sauce Recipe if you’re exploring other creamy and rich seafood flavors.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Skillet – To cook the cod and prepare the sauce.
Spatula – Helps flip the cod fillets without breaking them.
Zester – For grating the lemon zest.
Cutting Board and Knife – For chopping herbs and garlic.

How to Make Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce?

This dish is as easy to whip up as it is delicious! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal to enjoy. Let’s start! 😊

Step 1. Season the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry using a paper towel. This step ensures the fish gets a perfect sear. Sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly on both sides of each fillet. Set the fillets aside while you prepare your skillet.

Step 2. Sear the Cod

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, place the seasoned cod fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly golden and cooked through. Be gentle when flipping to keep the fish intact. Remove the fillets and set them aside.

Step 3. Sauté the Garlic

Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stirring constantly ensures the garlic doesn’t burn.

Step 4. Build the Sauce Base

Add diced tomatoes along with their juices and stir them into the garlic and butter mixture. If you’re using white wine, pour it in now and simmer for 5 minutes. Allow the alcohol to cook off, creating a flavorful base.

Step 5. Add Lemon Flavor

Zest and juice your lemon, then stir both into the tomato sauce. The fresh citrus gives the dish its signature brightness. Taste the sauce at this stage and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 6. Stir in the Broth

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and give the sauce a good stir. This helps create a light, silky texture that complements the tender cod.

Step 7. Simmer with the Cod

Nestle the cod fillets back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top of each piece. Cover the skillet and simmer for 5-6 minutes to allow the flavors to soak into the fish.

Step 8. Garnish and Serve

Once the cod is done, sprinkle it with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the cod hot with plenty of sauce to drizzle over your sides, and enjoy every bite! 🌿

You might also find the Baked Honey Cilantro Lime Salmon in Foil Recipe to be another quick and delicious seafood preparation idea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s a quick peek at why this dish could become your new weeknight favorite!

Fast and Easy: It’s ready in just 25 minutes!
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The tangy, buttery sauce pairs beautifully with the light, flaky cod.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs.
Nutritious: Packed with lean protein and wholesome ingredients.
Simple Cleanup: Only one skillet to wash!

How to Serve Cod in a Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce?

For an eye-catching presentation, plate the cod on a bed of buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or pasta. If you prefer lighter sides, go with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley or basil for a fresh garnish. Drizzle extra sauce over everything for maximum flavor impact!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutrition per serving (approximate):

Calories: 280
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fat: 17g

Make Ahead and Storage

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time to make dinner even faster. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce and make the cod fresh to preserve its texture.

Leftovers? Store cooked cod and sauce together in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the sauce, do so without the fish. The sauce will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. Just defrost, reheat, and serve with freshly cooked cod. For a make-ahead option with a creamy twist, you can try the Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce Recipe. It’s another convenient favorite for seafood lovers.

Tips for Making the Recipe

From my time in the kitchen, here’s a handful of tips to make this recipe even better!

Pat the Fish Dry: This step helps the cod sear beautifully without sticking.
Use Fresh Lemon: The bright, zesty flavor of fresh lemon juice can’t be beat!
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cod, as it cooks quickly and can easily dry out.
Deglaze the Pan: Scrape up those flavorful browned bits when you add the wine or broth.
Choose the Right Pan: A good non-stick skillet ensures the cod fillets don’t stick or break apart.

With this easy and elegant recipe, you’ll have a dinner that feels special enough for any occasion. Happy cooking! 🍴