Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes

Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines tender cod fillets with juicy cherry tomatoes. This recipe features a flavorful blend of spices that perfectly season the fish, while the cherry tomatoes, onion, and garlic roast together to create a savory, aromatic base.

The addition of butter and capers enhances the richness and adds a touch of briny contrast. Finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, this dish offers a light, yet satisfying meal that’s ideal for any occasion.

Baked Cod With Cherry Tomatoes

Ingredients:

5 cod fillets (fresh or frozen)

2½ cups whole mixed cherry tomatoes

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter (cubed)

4 cloves garlic (smashed)

1 onion (chopped)

1 lemon

capers

Fish Seasoning:

1 tsp salt

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp dried oregano

½ tsp paprika

¼ tsp dried thyme

¼ tsp allspice

½ tsp pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the cod: pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with the fish seasoning.

Prepare the vegetables: in a baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, chopped onions, smashed garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. mix everything together until well combined.

Preheat and bake vegetables: place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 200°c/400°f. roast the vegetables for 10 minutes to soften the tomatoes and let them release their juices.

Add the cod: remove the dish from the oven. move the vegetables aside to make space for the cod fillets. place the seasoned cod in the dish, add the cubed butter on top of the fish, and scatter capers over everything.

Finish baking: return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve: take the dish out of the oven. drizzle the cod with the pan juices and freshly squeezed lemon juice. serve and enjoy!

Notes:

Fish Preparation: Patting the cod fillets dry before seasoning helps the spices adhere better and ensures a crispy texture on the outside.

Vegetable Roasting: Roasting the cherry tomatoes, onions, and garlic before adding the cod helps to develop deep flavors and allows the tomatoes to release their juices, creating a flavorful base for the fish.

Seasoning Blend: The fish seasoning mix of salt, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, allspice, and pepper adds a well-rounded flavor profile. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste or add additional herbs.

Butter and Capers: Adding cubed butter on top of the cod helps to keep the fish moist and adds richness. Capers introduce a tangy, briny flavor that complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes.

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Baking Time: The baking times may vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets. Ensure the cod is cooked until it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can result in dry fish, so keep an eye on it towards the end of baking.

Lemon Juice: Drizzling fresh lemon juice over the finished dish brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing citrus note. Adjust the amount based on your preference for acidity.

Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a light salad, or a serving of rice or quinoa. The roasted vegetables and cod can also be enjoyed on their own for a lighter meal.

Substitutions: You can use other types of fish like haddock or tilapia if cod is not available. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the fillets.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.

Variations: For added flavor, consider adding a handful of olives or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before the final bake. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme to change the flavor profile.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen cod fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen cod fillets.

Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.

What if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?

You can substitute cherry tomatoes with grape tomatoes or even regular diced tomatoes.

Adjust the cooking time if needed.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, other types of fish like haddock or tilapia can be used. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Is there a substitute for olive oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil or canola oil as a substitute for olive oil.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the vegetable mixture for some extra heat.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and season the fish in advance.

Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before baking.

What should I serve with this dish?

This cod dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of rice or quinoa.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used in place of butter if preferred, but it might slightly alter the flavor.

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make this recipe without capers?

Yes, you can omit the capers if you prefer or substitute them with olives for a different briny flavor.