Zesty Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe

Seafood enthusiasts adore this elegant white wine tomato basil sauce that perfectly complements pan-seared cod with its vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

Delicate fish meets a bold sauce that dances with bright, aromatic herbs and rich, complex undertones.

Fresh basil leaves and ripe tomatoes create a stunning backdrop for the tender cod, releasing irresistible aromas that fill your kitchen.

The white wine adds sophisticated depth, balancing the natural sweetness of the fish and vegetables.

Each bite promises a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that transport you to coastal Italy.

This restaurant-quality dish comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Dive into this culinary experience and let your taste buds celebrate the magic of simple, fresh ingredients.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 330 kcal

Servings: 3

Ingredients For Pan-Seared Cod In White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce

• Cod Fillets: Delicate white fish that absorbs sauce beautifully, choose fresh or high-quality frozen fillets with firm, pearly white flesh and no strong fishy odor.

• Garlic, Onion: Foundational flavor builders that create a robust flavor base, select firm garlic cloves and crisp onions without soft spots.
• White Wine: Adds elegant depth and acidity, opt for dry varieties like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complement seafood.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces subtle heat and complexity, adjust quantity based on spice tolerance.
• Sugar: Balances tomato acidity, use sparingly to round out sauce flavors.

• Diced Tomatoes: Provides bright, tangy base for sauce, choose ripe, well-seasoned canned or fresh tomatoes.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Creates liquid consistency and adds underlying savory notes, select low-sodium versions for better control.
• Fresh Basil: Brings vibrant, herbaceous freshness, pick bright green leaves without wilting.
• Olive Oil, Butter: Create rich cooking medium and contribute depth, use high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasoning agents that elevate all ingredients, use freshly ground black pepper for maximum flavor.

Tools To Cook Pan-Seared Cod In White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce

• Large skillet: Essential for searing cod and creating the flavorful sauce, preferably non-stick or cast iron.
• Paper towels: Perfect for patting cod dry before seasoning, ensuring a crispy golden sear.
• Cutting board: Needed for chopping garlic, onion, and fresh basil.
• Sharp knife: Crucial for precise ingredient preparation and chopping herbs.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Helpful for stirring sauce and scraping browned bits from the pan.
• Measuring spoons: Useful for accurately measuring salt, pepper, and other seasonings.

How To Make Pan-Seared Cod In White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce

• Cod Preparation

Create a flavor canvas with tender cod fillets. Gently pat dry and season with a whisper of salt and pepper. Heat a skillet with a dance of olive oil and butter, transforming the cod into a golden masterpiece. Sear each side until a beautiful caramel crust forms, then rest the fish aside.

• Sauce Symphony

Awaken the skillet with fragrant garlic and onion, letting them soften and release their aromatic charm. Splash white wine to capture the delicious pan remnants, creating a liquid treasure. Introduce vibrant tomatoes, a hint of red pepper for excitement, and a splash of broth. Let the sauce simmer and develop a rich, inviting personality. Sprinkle fresh basil for a herbaceous kiss and adjust the seasoning to perfection.

• Final Fusion

Reunite the cod with its luxurious sauce, allowing them to mingle and share flavors. Let the fish bathe gently in the tomato embrace for a few moments. Serve immediately, adorned with extra basil, alongside crusty bread or a bed of rice to capture every drop of the magnificent sauce.

Tips For Flavorful Pan-Seared Cod In White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce

• Quick Searing Secret: Pat the cod fillets completely dry before searing to achieve a gorgeous golden-brown crust that seals in moisture and creates incredible texture.
• Low-Carb Friendly Swap: Replace traditional sides like pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep the dish light and diet-friendly while maintaining delicious flavor profiles.
• Seafood Flexibility: Substitute cod with halibut, sea bass, or tilapia for equally delectable results – each fish will absorb the white wine tomato sauce beautifully while maintaining delicate flakiness.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace butter with extra olive oil or coconut oil when searing fish, ensuring those with dairy restrictions can enjoy this restaurant-quality meal without compromising taste or technique.
• Herb Garden Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley alongside basil to create unique flavor dimensions that complement the delicate white fish and bright tomato sauce.

Serving Pan-Seared Cod In White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce

• Coastal Mediterranean Feast: Plate the cod with a generous scoop of sauce, accompanied by warm ciabatta bread for dipping into the rich, aromatic liquid.
• Rustic Pasta Companion: Toss al dente linguine or spaghetti with extra sauce, then crown with the perfectly seared cod fillet for a complete meal experience.
• Wholesome Grain Bowl: Layer fluffy quinoa or couscous as a base, nestle the cod on top, and drizzle with the vibrant white wine tomato sauce for a nutritious dinner option.
• Fresh Herb Enhancement: Sprinkle additional chopped fresh basil, a few crumbled feta cheese crumbs, and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to elevate the dish's brightness and Mediterranean character.

How To Store Pan-Seared Cod In White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce

• Quick Chill Method: Transfer leftover cod to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. Keep the fish separate from the sauce to maintain its crispy texture and prevent sogginess.
• Smart Shelf Life: Store the dish in the refrigerator for 1-2 days maximum. Fish tends to lose its delicate flavor and texture quickly, so consume as soon as possible for the best taste experience.
• Sauce Storage Strategy: Keep the white wine tomato basil sauce in a sealed container separately from the cod. This approach helps preserve the sauce's vibrant flavors and prevents the fish from becoming mushy during refrigeration.
• Reheating Rescue Plan: Gently warm the cod in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or wine to prevent drying out. Avoid microwave reheating, which can make the delicate fish tough and rubbery. Add fresh basil just before serving to revive the dish's aromatic profile.

Elegant Pan-Seared Cod In White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 3 1x

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Description

Delightful pan-seared cod in white wine tomato basil sauce brings Mediterranean coastal flavors to dinner tables. This elegant seafood dish combines fresh ingredients with simple techniques, promising a restaurant-quality meal you can easily prepare at home.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cod fillets (6 oz/170 g each)
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine
• ½ cup (120 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsps olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 cup (30 g) fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Pat cod fillets dry and season generously with salt and black pepper to enhance natural flavors.
2. Searing: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear cod fillets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and caramelized, ensuring fish is fully cooked. Remove fillets and set aside, preserving pan drippings.
3. Sauce Foundation: In the same skillet, add fresh olive oil and saute minced garlic and diced onions until translucent, releasing their aromatic essence.
4. Wine Infusion: Deglaze pan with white wine, scraping browned bits from skillet bottom. Simmer and reduce to concentrate flavors.
5. Sauce Development: Add diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, sugar, and chicken broth. Gently simmer, allowing ingredients to meld and sauce to thicken.
6. Final Touch: Incorporate freshly chopped basil leaves, creating a vibrant sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Plating: Return seared cod to skillet, spooning sauce over fillets to ensure moisture and flavor absorption. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and serve immediately with crusty bread, rice, or pasta.

Notes

• Select the Right Fish: Choose fresh, high-quality cod with firm, white flesh and no strong fishy odor to ensure the best flavor and texture.
• Patting Dry Matters: Thoroughly dry the cod fillets with paper towels before seasoning to achieve a perfect golden-brown sear and prevent steaming in the pan.
• Control the Heat: Maintain medium-high heat when searing to create a crispy exterior without burning the fish, watching carefully for a beautiful caramelized crust.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust the wine, sugar, and red pepper flakes to create a harmonious sauce that complements the delicate cod without overpowering its natural taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 3
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg