Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Sauce

Ingredients:

For the Cod:

• – 4 cod fillets (about 6-8 ounces each)
• – Salt and pepper to taste
• – 2 tablespoons olive oil
• – 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

For the Tomato Basil Sauce:

• – 2 tablespoons olive oil
• – 1 small onion, finely chopped
• – 3 garlic cloves, minced
• – 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• – 1/4 cup dry white wine
• – 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• – 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• – Salt and pepper to taste
• – 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• – 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Cod**: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. **Cook the Cod**:

• – In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
• – Add the cod fillets to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Transfer the cooked cod to a plate and keep warm.

3. **Make the Tomato Basil Sauce**:

• – In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• – Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
• – Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• – Stir in the diced tomatoes, white wine, red pepper flakes (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
• – Stir in the chopped basil and parsley.

4. **Combine and Serve**:

• – Return the cooked cod fillets to the skillet with the tomato basil sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the fish and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
• – Transfer the cod fillets to serving plates, spooning additional sauce over the top.
• – Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta. Enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of the tomato basil sauce with the tender, flaky cod!