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Pan Seared Cod White: Divine 4-Minute Crust Recipe

Pan Seared Cod White: Divine 4-Minute Crust Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 25 reviews

This Pan Seared Cod recipe features perfectly golden, flaky cod fillets cooked in just 4 minutes per side, topped with a vibrant garlic, cherry tomato, and white wine sauce enhanced with fresh basil and a hint of red pepper flakes. It’s a simple, elegant dish full of fresh flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood

  • 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

Cooking & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Liquids

  • ½ cup dry white wine

Garnish

  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, ensuring the pan is hot enough to sear the fish properly.
  2. Season the cod: Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with salt and black pepper for balanced flavor.
  3. Sear the cod: Place cod fillets in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, without moving them, until they develop a golden crust and the flesh flakes easily. Then, remove the fillets from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
  4. Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, to infuse the oil with its aroma.
  5. Cook tomatoes: Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and begin to release their juices.
  6. Deglaze with wine: Pour in the dry white wine, bring it to a simmer, and let it reduce slightly for about 2 minutes to concentrate the flavors and create a light sauce.
  7. Add basil and seasoning: Stir in the chopped fresh basil and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as necessary.
  8. Warm the cod: Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spoon the sauce over the top, and cook for an additional 2 minutes just to warm the fish through and meld the flavors.
  9. Serve: Plate the cod fillets, spoon extra sauce over them, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over before eating.

Notes

  • Be careful not to overcook the cod to keep it moist and flaky.
  • Use a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for best results.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional, but they add a subtle warmth and depth to the dish.
  • If you prefer, substitute fresh basil with fresh parsley or thyme.
  • Serve this dish with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • For a dairy-free and gluten-free meal, this recipe is naturally suitable.

Nutrition

Keywords: pan seared cod, cod fillets, garlic tomato sauce, white wine sauce, quick seafood recipe, healthy fish recipe, Mediterranean fish dish

Find it online: https://delishfamilyrecipe.com/pan-seared-cod-white-divine-4-minute-crust-recipe/