– **Title**: Grilled Cod With Romesco Sauce
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
*For the Romesco Sauce*:
– 2 ripe tomatoes
– 1 red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup almonds, toasted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– **Instructions**:
1. **Prepare the Romesco Sauce**:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tomatoes and red bell pepper on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes until they’re blistered and softened. Let them cool slightly.
– Once cooled, peel the skin off the bell pepper and tomatoes, then transfer to a blender.
– Add the toasted almonds, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt to the blender. Blend until smooth, gradually adding the olive oil until the sauce is well combined and has a pourable consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.
2. **Grill the Cod**:
– Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
– Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
– Grill the cod fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook.
3. **Serve**:
– Arrange the grilled cod on a serving platter and drizzle the romesco sauce generously over the top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness.
Enjoy your Grilled Cod with Romesco Sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod Fillets: Cod is a firm, mild white fish that works well on the grill. If you can’t find cod, you can substitute with haddock or tilapia for a similar texture and flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil is a good choice and has a high smoke point making it great for grilling.
Bell Pepper: A red bell pepper gives a sweet flavor to the Romesco sauce. For a different taste, feel free to use jarred roasted red peppers if fresh ones aren’t available. They are convenient and still delicious.
Blanched Almonds: These add creaminess and texture to the sauce. If you have allergies, sunflower seeds or cashews can be fantastic alternatives.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient provides a lovely smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a dash of cayenne can bring heat and flavor, though it won’t offer the same smoky taste.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Grilled Cod?
Grilling cod can be a bit tricky because it can stick or break apart if not handled well. Follow these steps for tasty results:
- Make sure your grill is hot before adding the fish. Preheat to medium-high heat.
- Brush the cod with olive oil generously; this helps prevent sticking.
- Season the cod well with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Place the fillets on the grill and avoid moving them too soon. They need about 4-5 minutes per side. Flip them gently using a spatula.
- Check for doneness. Cod is ready when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Using these tips, your grilled cod should turn out perfectly every time!
How to Make Grilled Cod With Romesco Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cod:
- 2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
For the Romesco Sauce:
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1/4 cup blanched almonds
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 slice of bread (stale or toasted, optional)
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes for cooking. You’ll roast the veggies for the sauce, grill the fish, and then it’s all about serving it up nicely!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Romesco Sauce:
First, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Put the red bell pepper and tomatoes on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they get nice and charred. Once done, take them out and let them cool for a bit.
Next, grab a food processor. Add the roasted bell pepper, tomatoes, blanched almonds, garlic, bread (if you’re using it), red wine vinegar, and smoked paprika. Pulse everything until it’s smooth. Now, slowly add the olive oil while still blending. Make sure to season it with salt and pepper to taste. Set this delicious sauce aside for later!
2. Grill the Cod:
Now it’s time to grill! Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the cod fillets with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper. Grill the fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side. They’re done when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Easy-peasy!
3. Serve:
Time to enjoy your meal! On a serving plate, spread a generous amount of the Romesco sauce. Place the grilled cod fillets right on top. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley! You can serve with some extra sauce on the side if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious grilled cod!
Can I Use Another Type of Fish Instead of Cod?
Absolutely! While cod is a great choice, you can substitute it with other firm white fish such as haddock, halibut, or tilapia. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets, so adjust accordingly.
How Can I Make the Romesco Sauce Spicier?
If you prefer your Romesco sauce with a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small chopped jalapeño during the blending process. Start with a little and taste as you go until you reach your desired level of heat!
Can I Make the Romesco Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Romesco sauce ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Cod and Romesco Sauce?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or steamed rice. You could also serve it with crusty bread to scoop up the sauce. Feel free to get creative with sides that you enjoy!
