File Cod, baked
Baked cod in tomato sauce with olives and garlic – A delicious recipe for a comforting dinner
*Preparation: 20 minutes*
*Cooking: 30-40 minutes*
*Total time: 50-60 minutes*
*Servings: 4*
If you are looking for a simple and tasty recipe that brings the authentic taste of the sea to your table, you have come to the right place! Baked cod in tomato sauce with olives and garlic is an excellent choice for a nutritious, flavorful dinner. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but also very versatile, as it can be paired with various side dishes.
A brief history
Cod is a popular fish in cuisines around the world, appreciated not only for its delicate flavor but also for its versatility in cooking. Over time, it has been used in many traditional recipes and is an important source of protein and nutrients. This recipe combines classic influences with fresh ingredients, offering an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
For the baked cod:
- About 10-12 pieces of cod (choose a quality fish, such as Royal Greenland cod)
- 2 handfuls of green and black olives (the olives add a salty note and pleasant texture)
- A container of cherry tomatoes (cherry tomatoes are sweet and provide a nice contrast)
- 2 red onions, peeled and quartered (red onion adds a sweet and aromatic taste)
- 1 lemon, sliced thin (lemon adds freshness)
- Bay leaves (for flavor)
- 50 ml red wine vinegar (for marinating the fish)
- 4 tablespoons tomato sauce (the tomato sauce enriches the dish)
- 4 tablespoons dry white wine (the white wine enhances the flavors)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for a rich taste)
- Coarse sea salt (to highlight the flavors)
- Freshly ground black pepper (for a spicy taste)
For the garlic sauce:
- 3 cloves of garlic (garlic brings an intense flavor)
- Sunflower oil (for emulsification)
- Sour cream (for creaminess)
Step by step: Preparing the baked cod
1. Marinating the fish
Start by marinating the cod pieces in red wine vinegar for 20 minutes. This will help intensify the flavors and improve the texture of the fish. Make sure to drain them well from the vinegar before placing them in the oven, using a kitchen towel to dry them.
2. Preparing the baking dish
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a small baking dish, place the cod pieces, sprinkling salt and pepper on each piece. Place the lemon slices and bay leaves on top of the fish to infuse the flavors.
3. Adding the aromatic ingredients
Once the fish is arranged in the dish, add the olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, tomato sauce, white wine, and olive oil. Gently mix to combine the ingredients, ensuring that the fish is well covered with the sauce.
4. Baking
Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes. Check after 30 minutes if the sauce has reduced sufficiently; if not, remove a bit of the sauce and let it continue to bake until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Preparing the garlic sauce
1. Grating the garlic
In a very small bowl, grate the garlic cloves on the finest section of the grater. This will help release the intense flavors of the garlic.
2. Emulsifying
Using a wooden spoon, start mixing the garlic, gradually adding a few drops of sunflower oil. Continue mixing, adding oil until you achieve a frothy mayonnaise-like consistency.
3. Adding the sour cream
Once you have the garlic emulsion, add a tablespoon of sour cream, mixing well after each addition. Continue this process until you achieve the desired amount of sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
Serve the cod warm, topped with the tomato sauce and garnished with olives and cherry tomatoes. Add the garlic sauce on the side to further enhance the flavors. This dish pairs perfectly with a side of Hasselback potatoes, adding a crunchy texture and delicious contrast.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, you can use other types of white fish, such as Atlantic cod, tilapia, or hake. Choose fresh fish for the best results.
2. How can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to preserve the texture.
3. What other side dishes can I try?
In addition to Hasselback potatoes, a fresh green salad or vegetable rice are also excellent choices.
Nutritional benefits
Cod is an excellent source of protein, low in saturated fats and rich in omega-3 fatty acids that contribute to heart health. Tomatoes, onions, and garlic provide antioxidants and essential vitamins, making this dish a healthy choice for any meal.
Personal note
This baked cod recipe is one of my favorites for quiet family evenings. The delicious aroma of slow-cooked fish, along with the rich sauce and garlic sauce, creates a memorable culinary experience. I encourage you to experiment with different ingredients and add your own variations!
Don't forget to visit my personal blog for more inspiration and delicious recipes! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: approx. 10-12 pieces of fish, 2 handfuls of olives, a container of cherry tomatoes, 2 red onions, peeled and quartered, 1 lemon, sliced thinly, bay leaves, 50 ml red wine vinegar, 4 tablespoons tomato sauce, 4 tablespoons dry white wine, 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, coarse sea salt, freshly ground black pepper. Ingredients for garlic sauce: 3 cloves of garlic, sunflower oil, sour cream.
