Provencal Cod Delight

Provencal Cod Delight

Ingredients:

• For the Cod:

  • 4 cod fillets (approximately 6 ounces each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• For the Provencal Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 1 teaspoon dried Herbes de Provence
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Cod:

   • In a shallow dish, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
   • Add the cod fillets and turn to coat them evenly. Cover and refrigerate for about 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Provencal Sauce:

   • In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the diced bell peppers and zucchini, cooking for about 7-8 minutes until they begin to soften.
   • Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), dry white wine, and Herbes de Provence. Stir to combine.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
   • Add the kalamata olives and capers. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.

3. Cook the Cod:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Remove the cod fillets from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
   • Sear the cod fillets in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
   • Transfer the seared fillets to the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

4. Assemble and Serve:

   • Spoon a generous amount of the Provencal sauce onto each plate.
   • Place a cod fillet on top of the sauce.
   • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil.
   • Serve immediately with crusty bread or over a bed of rice if desired.

Additional Tips:

• Feel free to adjust the vegetables according to your preference or seasonal availability.
• If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
• Pair this dish with a light, crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Rosé for an enhanced dining experience.

Enjoy your Provencal Cod Delight!