Description
This simple and healthy Tomato Cod Fish Pasta combines tender cod simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. Infused with garlic, chili flakes, fresh herbs, and the sweetness of fresh and canned tomatoes, this dish offers a perfect balance of protein and vibrant flavors, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- Approx. 170 grams pasta of choice (approx. 6 ounces)
Tomato Sauce
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 4 large cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (or more for extra spice)
- 2 cups canned diced tomatoes, with liquids
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, chopped or whole
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fish and Herbs
- Approx. 340 grams cod fish (approx. 12 ounces)
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Approx. 10 large leaves fresh basil, chopped
Optional
- Fresh parmesan, for serving
Instructions
- Prep: Mince the garlic cloves and chop the fresh parsley and basil. Set these aside for use after cooking.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Start Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices and add the fresh cherry or grape tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally and pressing down on the fresh tomatoes so they burst, allowing the sauce to thicken and reduce slightly.
- Cook Cod: Place the cod fillets gently into the center of the tomato sauce. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 6 to 10 minutes depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the fish is fully opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Flake Fish and Add Herbs: Using the back of a spatula, gently break the cooked cod into bite-sized pieces within the sauce. Turn off the heat, then stir in the chopped parsley and basil for fresh herbaceous flavor.
- Combine and Serve: Add the drained pasta directly to the pan with the tomato and cod sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with fresh parmesan on top if desired. Enjoy your healthy, flavorful meal!
Notes
- Use vine-ripened cherry tomatoes for the best natural sweetness.
- Adjust chili flakes according to your spice preference.
- Make sure not to overcook the cod; it should just flake easily when done.
- You can substitute cod with any firm white fish such as haddock or halibut.
- This recipe is best served immediately to enjoy the freshness of the herbs and fish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
