Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

This Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a delicious, elegant dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. The tender, flaky cod pairs beautifully with the smoky, creamy roasted red pepper sauce, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a dinner party centerpiece. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s as impressive as it is satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

• Light and Healthy: A nutritious dish packed with protein and veggies.
• Quick and Easy: On the table in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
• Flavorful: The roasted red pepper sauce is creamy, smoky, and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients for Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

You’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:

• 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers (drained)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/2 small onion (chopped)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• Blender or food processor: For making the sauce.
• Skillet: To sear the cod and make the sauce.
• Spatula: For flipping the fish.
• Knife and cutting board: For prepping ingredients.

How to Make Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cod fillets and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. Remove the fish and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

3. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the garlic and onion until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the roasted red peppers, broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
6. Return the sauce to the skillet over low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

7. Place the cooked cod fillets back into the skillet with the sauce. Spoon the sauce over the fish and simmer for 1–2 minutes to warm through.
8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the cod over rice, quinoa, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple side salad for a balanced meal.
• Add a slice of crusty bread to mop up the flavorful sauce.

Tips for the Best Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

• Use Fresh Cod: Fresh or thawed cod works best for this recipe. Ensure it’s firm and flaky.
• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Cod cooks quickly. Remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
• Blend the Sauce Smooth: For the creamiest texture, blend the roasted red pepper sauce thoroughly.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezer: The sauce can be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before adding freshly cooked fish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a different type of fish?
A: Absolutely! This sauce works well with halibut, tilapia, or salmon.

Q2: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes! Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Q3: What if I don’t have roasted red peppers?
A: You can roast your own by charring red bell peppers under a broiler, then peeling off the skins.

Conclusion: A Dish Worth Repeating!

This Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is an easy yet elegant meal bursting with flavor. The creamy, smoky sauce elevates the tender cod to restaurant-quality status while keeping the preparation simple enough for any home cook.

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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g

Enjoy this flavorful, comforting dish, and don’t forget to serve it with your favorite sides!

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