Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Salsa

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Delicate cod fillets pan-seared to golden perfection, topped with a fresh and vibrant tomato basil salsa. This mediterranean-inspired seafood (gluten free) ready in about 20 minutes blends (6 oz each) cod fillets, olive oil, quartered cherry tomatoes into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups quartered cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional). Stir gently and set aside to marinate.
  2. Step 2: Pat dry 4 cod fillets (6 oz each) and season both sides with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. Step 3: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Step 4: Add cod fillets to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side without moving, until golden and crisp at the edges.
  5. Step 5: Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
  6. Step 6: Serve each cod fillet topped generously with the fresh tomato basil salsa.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Pan-Seared Cod with Tomato Basil Salsa gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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