Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a flavorful, elegant dish that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal. The mild, flaky texture of cod pairs beautifully with the smoky sweetness of roasted red peppers, creating a sauce that is both vibrant and comforting. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners as well as special occasions, offering a balance of nutrition and indulgence. The sauce, made from roasted peppers, garlic, and a touch of cream or broth, enhances the delicate taste of the fish without overpowering it. Whether served with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, this dish is satisfying, colorful, and easy to prepare.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2–3
Ingredients
For the Cod
3 cod fillets (about 150–180g each)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp lemon juice
For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
2 large red bell peppers (roasted and peeled)
2 cloves garlic
1 small onion, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
½ cup vegetable or chicken broth
¼ cup cream (optional)
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Roast the peppers: Place whole red peppers under a broiler or over a flame until charred. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let steam. Peel off skins and remove seeds.
Prepare the sauce base: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chopped onion until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Blend the sauce: Add roasted peppers, broth, and paprika. Blend until smooth using a blender or hand blender.
Simmer sauce: Return sauce to the pan, add cream if using, and simmer for 5–7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Season the cod: Pat fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and lemon juice.
Cook the cod: Heat olive oil in a pan and cook fillets for 3–4 minutes per side until flaky.
Combine: Spoon the sauce onto plates and place cod on top, or gently simmer cod in sauce for 2–3 minutes.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.
Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or vegetables.
Enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor.
Tips
Use fresh cod for best flavor and texture.
Pat fish dry before cooking to get a good sear.
Don’t overcook cod—it should flake easily.
Roast peppers well for a smoky taste.
Use jarred roasted peppers to save time.
Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Blend sauce until very smooth for elegance.
Use broth instead of cream for a lighter dish.
Let sauce simmer to deepen flavor.
Serve immediately to avoid fish drying out.
Variations
Use salmon instead of cod.
Add spinach to the sauce for extra nutrients.
Make it dairy-free by skipping cream.
Add white wine for extra depth.
Use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Add capers or olives for a Mediterranean flavor.
Grill the fish instead of pan-frying.
Serve over pasta instead of rice.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for richness.
Make it spicy with jalapeños or hot sauce.
Q&A
Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking.
How do I know cod is done?
It flakes easily with a fork.
Can I make sauce ahead?
Yes, store in fridge up to 3 days.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein and low in carbs.
Can I bake the cod?
Yes, bake at 180°C for 12–15 minutes.
What can I serve with it?
Rice, potatoes, or vegetables.
Can I freeze the sauce?
Yes, for up to 2 months.
Why is my cod rubbery?
It’s overcooked.
Can I skip blending?
You can, but sauce will be chunky.
Can I use other fish?
Yes, any mild white fish works.
Nutrition (per serving approx.)
Calories: 280–350
Protein: 25–30g
Fat: 12–18g
Carbohydrates: 8–10g
Fiber: 2–3g
Conclusion
Cod in Roasted Red Pepper Sauce is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers rich flavor with minimal effort. The smoky sweetness of roasted peppers combined with tender, flaky cod makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Its versatility allows you to adapt the recipe to your taste, whether you prefer it creamy, spicy, or dairy-free. Perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a wholesome, restaurant-style meal at home!