Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender, flaky cod fillets with a rich, savory tomato sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The bright acidity of the tomatoes pairs beautifully with the mild fish, creating a comforting yet elegant meal that is sure to impress.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely love this Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is simply irresistible; the tangy and slightly sweet tomato sauce complements the delicate flavor of the cod perfectly. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to make — it requires minimal prep time and cooks in under 30 minutes! It’s also a nutritious option, packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids from the fish, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some useful tips and tricks to elevate your Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce experience:
1. Choose Fresh Cod: If possible, opt for fresh cod fillets instead of frozen for the best flavor and texture.
2. Quality Tomatoes: Use high-quality canned tomatoes for the sauce; San Marzano tomatoes are a fantastic choice for an authentic flavor.
3. Infused Oil: Consider infusing your olive oil with garlic and herbs before adding the tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor.
4. Gentle Poaching: Poach the cod gently over low heat to keep it moist and flaky; a rapid boil can lead to tough fish.
Make Ahead Tips
For those looking to prep in advance, you can make the tomato sauce a day ahead. Simply let it cool, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it gently before poaching the fish. The sauce can last for up to 3 days in the fridge. The cod is best cooked fresh, but you can season and prepare it just before cooking for a quick weeknight meal.
Recipe Variations
There are several tasty variations to consider for Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce:
1. Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini into the sauce for added nutrition.
2. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
3. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil or dill, to change the flavor profile.
How to Serve
To serve your Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce, ladle a generous amount of sauce onto a plate, place the cod on top, and drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve alongside crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which will complement the dish perfectly. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving sparkling water with a slice of lemon. As for side dishes, a simple green salad or roasted vegetables would be delightful, while a light lemon sorbet would make a refreshing dessert.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To freeze, place the cooled cod and sauce in a freezer-safe container, where it will keep well for about 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the fish from becoming tough.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large skillet or saucepan with a lid for this recipe. A spatula for gently lifting the cod will also come in handy. If you don’t have a lid for your pan, a piece of aluminum foil works as a great substitute.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe allergen-friendly, you can substitute the cod with firm tofu for a vegan option. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the sauce. To make it gluten-free, ensure any broth used is labeled gluten-free and serve it over gluten-free grains or vegetables.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer months, consider using fresh heirloom tomatoes instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor. In the winter, canned tomatoes are perfect for creating a rich, comforting sauce. You can also add seasonal herbs like fresh basil in summer or thyme in winter.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use another type of fish? Yes, other firm white fish like halibut or tilapia can work well.
2. How long does cod take to poach? Cod typically takes about 10-12 minutes to poach depending on thickness.
3. Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for canned? Absolutely! Use about 1.5 pounds of fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped.
How To Make Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce
Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce
Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender, flaky cod fillets with a rich, savory tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and broth to the skillet. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully place the cod fillets in the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the fish poach for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the cod topped with the tomato sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 303Total Fat 9gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 100mgSodium 465mgCarbohydrates 11gFiber 3gSugar 4gProtein 44g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Poached Cod in Tomato Sauce is a dish that beautifully marries simplicity with elegance. It’s an accessible recipe that offers a burst of flavors while being healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of tender cod and tangy tomato sauce!
