Cod in Puttanesca Sauce

Ingredients:

2 – 3 Cod Fish Fillets, seasoned with salt and black pepper, halved or cut in three equal pieces

10 Tomatoes, skin peeled, seeds and excess water removed

4 Garlic Cloves, minced

1/4 cup Capers, rinsed

1/2 cups Kalamata Olives, pitted

4 – 6 Anchovies

1/3 cup White wine, Chardonnay

1 tsp. Hot Pepper Flakes

Olive Oil

Salt, to taste

Black Pepper, to taste

Handful Parsley, chopped, for topping

Instructions:

Step 1:

Begin by heating a large drizzle of olive oil in a large saute pan.

Add in the garlic and anchovies and saute for about a minute.

Step 2:

Add in the capers, kalamata olives, and the hot pepper flakes.

Saute for about a minute over a medium/high flame.

Step 3:

Pour in the white wine and mix together for about one to two minutes, to allow the alcohol to evaporate.

Step 4:

Add in the tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper.

Mix together and cook over a medium to low flame for ten minutes.

Step 5:

After ten minutes, add in the cod fish.

Scoop some of the puttanesca sauce over each piece of cod.

Step 6:

Cover the pan with a lid and let the cod cook in the puttanesca sauce for fifteen minutes over a low flame.

Remove the lid only to scoop some more of the sauce over each piece of cod while cooking.

Step 7:

Remove from the stove top and serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Enjoy with a side of potatoes, rice, pasta, or salad.

Salute and cin cin!

Notes:

Sauce Base: The puttanesca sauce forms the flavorful base of this dish, consisting of tomatoes, garlic, anchovies, capers, kalamata olives, hot pepper flakes, and white wine. It’s rich, savory, and slightly tangy, with a hint of heat from the pepper flakes.

Cod Fish Fillets: The cod fish fillets are the star protein of this recipe, providing a delicate and mild flavor that pairs well with the bold flavors of the puttanesca sauce. Seasoned with salt and black pepper, they absorb the flavors of the sauce as they cook.

Cooking Technique: The cod fish fillets are gently cooked in the simmering puttanesca sauce, allowing them to absorb the flavors and become tender and flaky. Covering the pan with a lid helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking.

Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness to the dish, balancing the rich flavors of the sauce and enhancing its presentation.

Versatile Serving Options: This dish can be served with a variety of sides, such as potatoes, rice, pasta, or salad, making it a versatile and satisfying meal option.

Italian Flavors: The puttanesca sauce is a classic Italian sauce known for its bold and robust flavors. It brings together ingredients like tomatoes, olives, capers, and anchovies, creating a sauce that is both savory and slightly briny.

Adjustable Heat: The level of heat in the dish can be adjusted based on personal preference by varying the amount of hot pepper flakes added to the sauce.

Cooking Time: The dish comes together relatively quickly, with a total cooking time of around 25 minutes. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Wine Pairing: The addition of white wine to the sauce adds depth of flavor and complexity. A Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish and enhances its overall taste profile.

Authentic Italian Experience: This recipe captures the essence of Italian cuisine, with its bold flavors, simple yet high-quality ingredients, and emphasis on fresh herbs for garnish. It’s a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table.

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of fish instead of cod?

Yes, you can substitute cod with other firm white fish such as haddock, halibut, or sea bass.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish to my taste?

You can adjust the amount of hot pepper flakes according to your preference.

Start with a smaller amount and gradually add more to reach your desired level of spiciness.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes as a convenient alternative.

Make sure to use diced or crushed canned tomatoes and adjust the quantity based on the recipe.

Is it necessary to use white wine, or can I substitute it with something else?

While white wine adds flavor to the dish, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer not to use alcohol.

Can I omit the anchovies if I don’t like them?

Yes, you can omit the anchovies if you prefer.

They add a unique savory flavor to the sauce, but the dish will still be delicious without them.

How can I ensure that the cod is cooked perfectly without overcooking?

To ensure the cod is cooked perfectly, simmer it gently in the puttanesca sauce over low heat and monitor the cooking time.

Remove it from the heat as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.

Can I prepare the puttanesca sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Yes, you can prepare the puttanesca sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Reheat it gently before adding the cod.

Can I make this dish without olives if I’m not a fan of them?

Yes, you can omit the olives if you prefer.

They add a briny flavor to the sauce, but the dish will still be flavorful without them.

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley for topping?

While fresh parsley adds brightness to the dish, you can substitute it with dried parsley if needed.

Use about half the amount of dried parsley compared to fresh.

Are there any suitable alternatives for those who don’t consume alcohol and want to replace the white wine?

If you don’t consume alcohol, you can replace the white wine with an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth to maintain the depth of flavor in the sauce.