Description

This Baked Cod with Tomatoes recipe features tender, flaky cod fillets baked to perfection with vibrant roasted cherry tomatoes, garlic, capers, and fragrant herbs. Quick and easy to prepare, this healthy seafood dish combines bright lemon and herb flavors with the richness of olive oil and butter, making it a perfect weeknight dinner for seafood lovers.

Ingredients

For the Cod

4 cod fillets (5-6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter (melted)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Chopped fresh parsley (for serving, optional)
Chopped fresh basil (for serving, optional)

For the Tomatoes

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
¼ teaspoon dried basil
2 tablespoons capers
1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
Salt and black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Cod: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). In a bowl, toss the cod fillets with fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of olive oil to coat evenly. Place the coated cod in the refrigerator to marinate while preparing the tomatoes.
Roast Tomatoes: In a separate bowl, toss the halved cherry tomatoes with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, capers, lemon pepper seasoning, and salt and black pepper to taste. Spread the tomato mixture evenly in a 9×13-inch baking pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to soften and release their flavors.
Add Cod to Tomatoes: Remove the cod from the refrigerator and nestle the fillets into the partially cooked tomatoes in the baking pan. Drizzle the melted butter over the cod evenly to add richness and moisture.
Bake Fish: Continue baking the cod and tomatoes for 11-14 minutes, or until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking; the internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and basil if desired. Serve immediately for a flavorful and healthy meal.

Notes

For best results, use fresh cod fillets that are uniform in size for even cooking.
Adjust seasoning according to your preference; additional lemon pepper or herbs can enhance flavor.
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To make it dairy-free, omit the butter or substitute with a plant-based alternative.