Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Sauce is a light yet flavorful dish that combines flaky cod with a bright, aromatic tomato-based sauce. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough to serve guests. The white wine adds depth while the tomatoes bring freshness and balance.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cod fillets (skinless, boneless)olive oilgarlic (minced)cherry tomatoes (halved)white wine (dry variety like Sauvignon Blanc)lemon juicefresh parsley (chopped)crushed red pepper flakes (optional)salt and black pepper

directions

Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the cod fillets and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté garlic until fragrant.

Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and burst.

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping the pan to deglaze and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top.

Cover and simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes, or until cod is fully cooked and flakes easily.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley and crushed red pepper flakes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add olives or capers to the sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

Swap cod with another white fish like haddock or halibut.

Use diced canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes if out of season.

Add spinach or kale to the sauce for a boost of greens.

Finish with a drizzle of basil oil or fresh thyme for extra aroma.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.Avoid freezing, as the cod may become mushy and the sauce may separate.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat it dry thoroughly before searing.

What kind of white wine works best?

A dry wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for this sauce.

Can I use canned tomatoes?

Yes, use diced or whole canned tomatoes if fresh cherry tomatoes aren’t available.

What to serve with this dish?

It pairs well with rice, pasta, crusty bread, or a green salad.

How do I know when cod is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and turn opaque all the way through.

Is this dish spicy?

Only mildly, and the crushed red pepper flakes are optional.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free.

Can I make it without wine?

You can substitute with seafood broth or chicken broth and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.

Does this sauce work with shrimp?

Absolutely, shrimp cooks quickly and works well with the same sauce.

How thick should the sauce be?

It should be slightly reduced but still light and brothy—perfect for spooning over fish or soaking with bread.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Cod in White Wine Tomato Sauce is a simple yet sophisticated seafood dish packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. With tender cod and a zesty, herb-kissed tomato sauce, it’s a nourishing and satisfying choice for any night of the week. Give it a try and elevate your dinner table with minimal effort.