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Cod in a Lemon Butter Tomato Sauce

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Cod in a Lemon Butter Tomato Sauce is a light yet flavorful fish dish featuring flaky cod simmered in a bright, buttery tomato‑garlic sauce with fresh lemon and herbs. It’s quick to make, elegant enough for guests, and comforting enough for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 cod fillets (fresh or thawed if frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved) or chopped fresh tomatoes
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional but nice)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth (for extra depth)
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pat cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sear the cod for about 2–3 minutes per side, until lightly golden. Remove cod from pan and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the tomatoes and cook 4–5 minutes, until they begin to soften and release juices.
  5. Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest (if using). If using, add a splash of white wine or broth and let it simmer for a minute to develop flavor.
  6. Return the cod fillets to the pan. Spoon the sauce over the fish, then cover and simmer gently 4–5 minutes, until cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve hot with rice, pasta, crusty bread, or your favorite side to soak up the sauce.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, skip the butter or use a plant‑based butter substitute; olive oil will still give good flavor.
  • Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat, or toss in a handful of baby spinach or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Halibut or haddock can be used instead of cod — just watch cooking time, as white fish tends to cook quickly.
  • Don’t overcook the fish — it should be opaque and flake easily, but still moist. Overcooked fish becomes dry.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like rice, quinoa, couscous, pasta or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/cod-in-a-lemon-butter-tomato-sauce/