Name: Cod Provencal With Tomatoes Capers And Olives
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Ingredients: Cod fillets; Olive oil; Onion; Garlic; Diced tomatoes; Dry white wine; Vegetable or chicken broth; Capers; Black olives (e.g., Kalamata); Fresh parsley; Dried oregano; Salt and pepper

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I tried this Cod Provençal with Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives recipe last week, and I just have to share it. The experience was like taking a quick culinary trip to the gorgeous shores of the South of France! Every bite was packed with flavor, from the delicate, flaky cod to the tangy, bold sauce made with tomatoes, olives, and capers.

This dish not only stole the show at dinner but also turned out much easier to make than I expected. It’s my new go-to for impressing family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re ready to wow your taste buds with this Mediterranean masterpiece, here’s all you need to know!

Cod Provencal With Tomatoes Capers And Olives

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Cod Provençal is an irresistible dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Here’s why:

1. Easy to Make

It’s amazing how simple this recipe is. With just a few pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create something that looks and tastes like it took hours of effort. Everything comes together easily in a skillet, and it’s ready in under an hour.

2. Packed with Mediterranean Flavors

The combination of sweet, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and tangy capers makes this recipe a true flavor bomb. Pair those with delicate cod and fragrant herbs like oregano and parsley, and you’ve got a dazzling dish that doesn’t need any extras.

3. Health-Friendly

This recipe is naturally low in calories and full of nutrients like protein and omega-3 fatty acids. It’s also gluten-free and can be easily adapted for specific dietary preferences, making it perfect for feeding a crowd.

4. Customizable

One of the best things about this dish is that it’s so versatile. Don’t have black olives? Use green ones. Avoiding wine? Opt for chicken broth. You can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes, and it will still be wonderful.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner for the family or hosting a dinner party, Cod Provençal fits right in. It’s elegant enough to wow guests but simple enough not to cause you stress in the kitchen.

Cooking Time

The beauty of this recipe is how quickly it comes together! Here’s the breakdown:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
1/2 cup dry white wine (or chicken/vegetable broth as a substitute)
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
2 tbsp capers, drained
1/3 cup black olives (e.g., Kalamata), pitted and halved
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste

Note: These ingredient quantities are for serving 4 people. Adjust as needed for different serving sizes.

Variations

If you’d like to adjust the recipe to fit your preferences, here are some great swaps and add-ins to consider:

Dairy-Free: The recipe is already dairy-free, but double-check your broth to ensure it doesn’t contain added dairy.
Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or fresh basil for an herbal twist.
Swap the Protein: Halibut, haddock, or even shrimp can be used instead of cod.
Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium broth and reduce the amount of added salt.

Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need just a handful of tools:

Large Skillet: For cooking the cod and sauce.
Cutting Board & Knife: To prep the vegetables.
Spatula: For flipping the cod gently.

How to Make Cod Provençal With Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives?

Making this dish is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps:

Step 1. Prep the Cod 🐟

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. This ensures they cook evenly and soak up the seasoning. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper, and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2. Sauté Aromatics 🧅

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. This step sets the foundation for your Mediterranean sauce!

Step 3. Build the Sauce 🍅

Pour in the diced tomatoes, along with their juice, and the white wine. Stir well, then reduce the heat and allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can blend.

Step 4. Add Olives and Capers 🫒

Stir the olives and capers into the simmering sauce. Their briny, tangy notes will elevate the dish and balance the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Step 5. Cook the Cod 🎣

Nestle the seasoned cod fillets into the skillet, ensuring they’re surrounded by the aromatic sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6. Garnish and Serve 🌿

Sprinkle parsley and oregano over the dish to add brightness and a burst of color. Serve the cod on plates with generous spoonfuls of sauce, and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Pat the fish dry: Removing moisture ensures the cod cooks evenly.
Adjust to taste: Add more or less salt depending on your preference, especially if your broth or olives are salty.
Use fresh herbs if possible: They’ll add an extra pop of flavor and fragrance.
Don’t overcook the cod: Watch it closely toward the end to keep it tender and flaky.

How to Serve Cod Provençal With Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives?

For a complete meal, serve this beautifully bright dish alongside crusty bread to mop up the sauce. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, pair it with sauteed greens, roasted vegetables, couscous, or rice. For a stylish presentation, plate the cod with a lemon wedge and garnish with whole fresh parsley leaves.

Nutritional Information

This dish isn’t just flavorful—it’s nutritious too! Per serving, you’ll get:

Calories: 290
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 10g

Make Ahead and Storage

Cod Provençal can easily be prepped ahead of time.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the tomato, olive, and caper sauce a day or two in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce, add the cod, and cook it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The flavors improve the next day, making it even better! For longer storage, freeze the dish (sauce and all) for up to a month. Be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Cod Provençal with Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives is a dish worth savoring. Both delicious and simple to prepare, it’ll transport you straight to the heart of Provence with every bite. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a hit at every table. Bon appétit!