Cod in tomato sauce is a light, flavorful Mediterranean-style dinner made with flaky cod gently simmered in a garlicky tomato sauce. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that’s fancy enough to serve for a dinner party!
4cod fillets or loin pieces(5 to 6 ounces each, thawed if frozen)
1tablespoonminced fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet (with cover available) over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using); cook for 1 minute more, stirring often.
2 tablespoons olive oil, ½ cup finely diced yellow onion, 4 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Pour in crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors develop and the tomato sauce thickens slightly.
1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
Nestle cod fillets into the sauce in a single layer. Spoon a little tomato sauce over each fillet.
4 cod fillets or loin pieces
Cover the skillet and simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout (internal temp should be 145°F). Cook time may vary depending on thickness of the fillets.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley
Notes
Serving suggestions: Serve cod with tomato sauce over white rice, orzo, couscous, or another type of pasta. For an easy option, simply serve it with crusty bread or garlic toast. Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables.
Possible variations:
Add olives, capers, or artichokes for a Mediterranean vibe.
Stir in baby spinach during the last 2 minutes to wilt.
Swap cod for another white fish like halibut or haddock
Storage and reheating: Refrigerate leftover cod and tomato sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing this recipe. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or (carefully!) in the microwave.