Introduction
Transform humble cod fillets into a restaurant-worthy Mediterranean feast! This recipe is all about simple, fresh flavors that come together beautifully in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something delicious and healthy without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready for a taste of the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, right on your dinner table!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. The pan-searing method gives the cod a beautiful crispy skin and flaky interior, while the juicy tomatoes and salty olives add a burst of Mediterranean sunshine. It’s quick, easy, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry!
Key Ingredients
- 🐟 4 cod fillets (6-8 ounces each)
- 🍅 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 🫒 ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
- 🍋 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 🫙 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1️⃣ Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets, skin-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
3️⃣ Flip the cod and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
4️⃣ In a small bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, minced garlic, chopped oregano, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
5️⃣ Add the tomato mixture to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.
6️⃣ Serve the pan-seared cod immediately, spooning the tomato-olive mixture over the top.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the cod in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don’t have fresh oregano, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing the cod. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy skin on the cod. If the heat is too low, the fish will steam instead of sear. If the heat is too high, the fish will burn before it cooks through.
Crunch Factor
The crispy skin of the cod provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft, juicy tomatoes and olives. The slightly salty olives add a pleasant pop of texture as well.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For extra crispy skin, pat the cod fillets very dry before searing.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for a touch of heat 🌟.
- Use a good quality olive oil for the best flavor.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish is perfect for a dinner party! You could present it in individual oven-safe ramekins for an elegant touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese before serving.
🌟 Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes along with the cherry tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
🌟 Substitute capers for some of the olives for a slightly different briny taste.
🌟 Finish with a drizzle of high-quality balsamic glaze for an extra layer of sweetness and acidity.
Troubleshooting
- Fish is sticking to the pan: Make sure the pan is hot enough and that the cod is patted completely dry before searing. Use a high smoke point oil.
- Fish is overcooked: Reduce the heat slightly and cook for a shorter time. The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Tomatoes are too watery: Increase the heat slightly to help the tomatoes reduce and caramelize.
FAQ
- Can I use other types of fish? Yes, you can substitute other firm white fish like halibut or snapper.
- Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best to cook this dish fresh, but you can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time.
- What kind of olive oil should I use? Use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Can I add vegetables other than tomatoes and olives? Absolutely! Consider adding zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
Conclusion
This Pan-Seared Cod with Tomatoes & Olives is a simple yet stunning dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that tastes like a vacation! Give it a try and share your creations with us on RateMyRecipes.com! Enjoy!
Easy Mediterranean Cod: Dinner Done Right
A flavorful and healthy Mediterranean-inspired cod dish that is quick to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200u00b0C.
- In a large baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, garlic, parsley, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place the cod fillets on top of the vegetable mixture and arrange lemon slices over the fish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the cod in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with a side of couscous or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices.