Name: Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); Salt and pepper (to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped); 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Fresh basil leaves (for garnish (optional))

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Looking for a delicious yet light meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare? Our Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter recipe is just what you need! This Healthy Fish Dinner features tender cod fillets topped with a zesty, herb-infused tomato butter that adds a burst of flavor. Perfect for a healthy dinner or a delightful weekend meal, this recipe combines fresh ingredients to create a dish that is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter

Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter is a standout Healthy Fish Dinner:

Flavorful & Light: Zesty tomato butter enhances tender cod without heaviness.
Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
Elegant Yet Easy: Restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort.
Fresh Ingredients: Herbs, lemon, and tomatoes shine in every bite.
I make this Healthy Fish Dinner for weeknight meals, and it’s always a hit!

Ingredients for Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter

Here’s what you’ll need for Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter (serves 4):

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Tips:

Cod: Fresh or thawed frozen fillets; pat dry for a good sear.
Tomatoes: Cherry for sweetness; grape or Roma as substitutes.
Butter: Unsalted for control; soften at room temperature for mixing.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley for vibrancy; dried herbs in a pinch (use half).
Lemon: Zest and juice from fresh lemons for brightness.

Directions for Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter

Let’s create this flavorful Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter!

Prepare the Cod

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
I season 4 cod fillets with ½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp pepper on both sides.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat 1 tbsp olive oil, sear the fillets for 2–3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer to the baking sheet.

Make Tomato and Herb Butter

In the same skillet, I heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat, add 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes and 3 minced garlic cloves, and cook for 3–4 minutes until tomatoes soften and release juices.
In a small bowl, I mix ¼ cup softened butter, 2 tbsp chopped basil, 2 tbsp chopped parsley, 1 tsp lemon zest, and 1 tbsp lemon juice until smooth.

Assemble and Bake

I spoon the tomato mixture evenly over the cod fillets.
I dollop the herb butter on top of the tomatoes.
I bake for 10–12 minutes until the cod flakes easily with a fork (145°F internal temperature).

Serve

I garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve hot, savoring the vibrant flavors.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 5g carbs, 30g protein, 20g fat, 2g fiber

Variations for Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter

Try these twists on Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter:

Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp red pepper flakes to the tomatoes for a bold Healthy Fish Dinner.
Different Fish: Swap cod for haddock, tilapia, or halibut, adjusting bake time.
Herb Swap: Use dill or tarragon instead of basil for a unique flavor.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or zucchini to the tomato mixture.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.

Serving Ideas:

Pair with Layla Cooks’ Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs for a cozy meal.
Serve with steamed asparagus, quinoa, or a green salad for a light Healthy Fish Dinner.
Plate over rice or roasted potatoes for a heartier option.
Present with a lemon wedge and basil sprig for a restaurant-style look.

Storage

I store Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. To freeze, I place cooled cod and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 1–2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating. To reheat, I warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or in a skillet over low heat, gently stirring to avoid overcooking. I heat just until warmed through to prevent the cod from drying out.

FAQs About Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe:

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the cod with other mild, white fish such as haddock, tilapia, or halibut. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets. The general approach remains the same: sear the fish, top with the tomato and herb butter, and bake until cooked through.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Ensure that the tomato and herb butter is well mixed and use dairy-free options for all other ingredients to maintain the flavor and texture.

Can I prepare the tomato and herb butter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the tomato and herb butter ahead of time. Simply mix the softened butter with the herbs, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before using it to top the cod.

What should I do if I don’t have cherry tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes are not available, you can use other types of tomatoes such as grape tomatoes or Roma tomatoes. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook down similarly to cherry tomatoes. Alternatively, you can use canned diced tomatoes for a similar effect, but be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make this dish without searing the cod?
Yes, you can skip the searing step to save time. Season the cod, place it directly on the baking sheet, top with the tomato mixture and herb butter, and bake for 12–15 minutes until cooked through. Searing adds extra flavor and texture but isn’t essential.

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Conclusion

This Cod with Tomato and Herb Butter recipe offers a deliciously light and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with fresh flavors. Perfect for any occasion, it combines tender cod fillets with a zesty, herb-infused tomato butter for a delightful dining experience. Enjoy this Healthy Fish Dinner any night of the week!