Description
This Non-Wine Tomato Basil Cod is a light yet flavorful baked seafood dish made with tender cod fillets, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, lemon zest, and olive oil. Everything is gently cooked in parchment packets, locking in moisture and creating a clean, vibrant meal that feels elegant while remaining easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
One pound cod fillets of similar size
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
One half medium red onion thinly sliced
One pint cherry tomatoes halved
Zest from one fresh lemon
Juice from one fresh lemon
Two tablespoons fresh basil thinly sliced plus extra for garnish
Two teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
Parchment paper sheets for baking
Instructions
Preheat the oven until it reaches a steady cooking temperature suitable for baking fish
Pat the cod fillets dry using paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper
Lay parchment paper sheets flat on a clean surface and evenly distribute the sliced red onion in the center of each sheet
Place one cod fillet over the onions and scatter the cherry tomatoes around and on top of the fish
Sprinkle lemon zest evenly over the fillets and drizzle fresh lemon juice across each portion
Add the sliced basil and lightly drizzle olive oil to finish assembling the packets
Fold the parchment tightly over the fish and vegetables, sealing the edges and twisting the ends to trap steam
Arrange the sealed packets on a baking sheet and place them in the oven
Bake until the cod becomes opaque and flakes easily while remaining moist
Remove from the oven and carefully open the packets while avoiding hot steam
Garnish with additional fresh basil and serve immediately
Notes
This recipe relies on parchment cooking to gently steam the cod while preserving its natural texture and flavor
Fresh cod provides the best results, but thawed frozen cod can be used if fully dried before seasoning
Avoid overcrowding the packets, as excess moisture can dilute the flavor
The cod should appear opaque and flake easily when done, without becoming dry
Lemon zest adds aroma while the juice balances the sweetness of tomatoes
This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated briefly if needed
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American