Description
This Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter recipe combines perfectly seared cod fillets with a vibrant tomato and garlic topping and a rich, fragrant butter infused with fresh herbs and lemon. Baked to tender perfection, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that are sure to impress in under 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Tomato and Garlic Mixture
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Herb Butter
- 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, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the cod from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Season the Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Sear the Cod: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cod fillets and sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn a golden brown crust. This step locks in flavor and adds texture. Transfer the seared fillets to the prepared baking sheet.
- Cook the Tomato 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, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a fresh, flavorful sauce.
- Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with chopped basil, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated, creating a bright, aromatic butter to complement the fish.
- Assemble the Dish: Spoon the warm tomato and garlic mixture evenly over each cod fillet on the baking sheet. Then, add dollops of the prepared herb butter on top of each fillet to melt over them as they bake.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is perfectly cooked.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the cod hot for a flavorful and elegant meal.
Notes
- Ensure cod fillets are of similar size for even cooking.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can substitute in a pinch (use half the amount).
- Do not overcook the cod; it should flake easily but remain moist.
- Cherry tomatoes can be replaced with grape tomatoes if unavailable.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute herb butter with olive oil mixed with herbs and lemon zest.
