When I first made this Cod Provencal with Tomatoes Capers and Olives recipe, I couldn’t believe how easily such vibrant flavors came together in just one pan. The combination of tender cod, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and capers felt like a warm Mediterranean hug on a plate.
And guess what? It’s so simple that even on a busy evening, you can recreate this dish with ease. Plus, if you enjoy experimenting with global flavors, you’ll also love trying recipes like cilantro lime chicken thighs. But for now, let’s get ready to bring a bit of Provençal magic to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to craft this flavorful dish.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – Use high-quality for authenticity and a rich flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped – Fresh garlic adds a fragrant base to the dish.
- 1 onion, sliced into half-moons – Sweet and softens nicely into the sauce.
- 2 large tomatoes, diced – Ripe, juicy tomatoes are essential; Roma or vine-ripened work best.
- 6 sprigs parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh burst of herbaceousness.
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme, stripped from stems – Infuses the dish with classic Provençal aromatics.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes – Optional, but adds a subtle spicy kick.
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper – To balance the flavors.
- ½ tsp salt – Adjust as needed, especially with briny olives and capers in the mix.
- 15-20 black olives – Go for Kalamata or Niçoise for their robust, briny flavor.
- 2 tbsp capers or 10-15 caper berries – Their salty tang complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- 4 cod fillets – Fresh or thawed fillets are perfect; ensure they are thick and meaty.
- ½ lemon, juiced – Brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.
Note: These quantities serve four. Double or halve the ingredients based on your needs, but keep the seasoning balanced.
Variations to Try
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are a few twists:
- Fish Substitutes: Use haddock, mahi-mahi, or tilapia if cod isn’t available.
- Add Veggies: Red bell peppers or artichoke hearts enhance the textures.
- Spice it Up: Add smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for a fiery version.
- Dairy-Free Option: This recipe is naturally dairy-free! You won’t need to make adjustments.
Cooking Time
This dish is quick and perfect for weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
Make sure you have these tools ready:
- Large frying pan: For cooking the sauce and fish together.
- Chopping board and knife: To prep your ingredients.
- Lid for the pan: Essential for steaming the cod to perfection.
How to Make Cod Provençal with Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives
Step 1 – Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, cooking until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3 minutes. This step builds a fragrant base for your dish.
Step 2 – Prepare the Tomato Mixture
Add the diced tomatoes, parsley, thyme, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything well. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. This creates a thick, flavorful sauce for your cod.
Step 3 – Add Olives and Capers
Mix the olives and capers into the sauce. The briny flavors from these ingredients take the sauce to the next level, making every bite irresistible.
Step 4 – Cook the Cod
Season the cod fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, then place them directly on top of the sauce. Cover the pan and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily. The gentle steaming locks in the fish’s moisture, making it perfectly tender.
Step 5 – Garnish and Serve
Finish with a garnish of fresh thyme or parsley and you’re ready to serve! Don’t forget to have some crusty bread or steamed jasmine rice for soaking up the sauce.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are some personal tips to ensure this dish turns out fantastic every time:
- Don’t Overcook the Cod: Once it flakes easily, it’s done! Overcooking can make it dry.
- Fresh Herbs Are Key: While dried herbs work in a pinch, fresh parsley and thyme bring authenticity.
- Ripe Tomatoes Are a Must: The ripeness directly impacts the sauce’s flavor. Avoid underripe or canned unless it’s the off-season.
- Layer Flavors with Lemon: Lemon juice added both before and after cooking enhances the freshness.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Especially with salty olives and capers, you might need less salt.
How to Serve Cod Provençal with Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives
Presentation can make a simple dish feel gourmet. For this one, I love serving it over a bed of fluffy white rice or alongside buttered potatoes. Decorate the plate with a sprig of thyme for a classy touch. Pairing this dish with another Mediterranean-inspired recipe like dump-and-bake chicken tzatziki with rice creates a complete meal that transports you straight to the shores of Southern France.
Nutritional Information
This dish is light, flavorful, and healthy! Here are the approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 10g
How to Store Cod Provençal with Tomatoes, Capers, and Olives
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: After cooling, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating Tip: Heat slowly to prevent the cod from drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish has everything to win you over. Here’s why:
- Quick Cooking Time: Perfect for busy evenings.
- Rich in Flavor: The blend of tomatoes, olives, and capers is downright delicious.
- One-Pan Cleanup: Fewer dishes mean less hassle in the kitchen.
- Ideal for Many Diets: Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
- Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your preferences.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the fillets entirely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. For related meal inspirations, explore dinner recipes.
What can I substitute for olives?
If you’re not a fan of olives, try artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for a similar savory kick.
Can I cook this in the oven?
It’s best prepared on the stovetop due to the layering of flavors. However, you can soften the tomato mixture in the oven and finish cooking on the stovetop.
How do I prevent my cod from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the pan is oiled well and heated before adding the cod fillets. Using a nonstick or enameled pan can help.