This Easy Grilled Cod is light and flaky, perfectly paired with sweet roasted tomatoes and a zesty dill sauce. It’s a simple dish that feels fancy without the fuss!
The bright colors of the tomatoes make this meal look super inviting. I love grilling the cod because it cooks fast and keeps things breezy in the kitchen. Enjoy it with a side salad for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod: The star of the dish! Fresh or frozen cod works well; just make sure if using frozen, to completely thaw it first. If cod isn’t available, try halibut or tilapia as a tasty substitute.
Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: These sweet little tomatoes are perfect for roasting. If you can’t find them, use regular chopped tomatoes. Feel free to mix in other types, like heirloom, for a flavor boost.
Olive Oil: This is great for roasting tomatoes and brushing the cod. If you want to try something different, avocado oil or melted butter are solid alternatives.
Dill: Fresh dill adds a lovely flavor. I really recommend it! If you don’t have it, parsley or basil can be used instead, but it’ll give a different taste.
Garlic: Fresh is best for this dish, but if you’re short on time, use garlic powder instead. It won’t be as strong but works in a pinch!
How Do I Get the Cod to Grill Perfectly?
Grilling cod can be super easy if you follow a few key steps. To avoid it sticking and falling apart, here’s what I suggest:
- Ensure your grill is preheated well. A hot grill prevents sticking.
- Brush both sides of the cod with olive oil and season before grilling.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Flip gently with a spatula when it looks opaque around the edges.
- For extra flavor, consider adding lemon slices on top while grilling.
By following these tips, you’ll have beautifully grilled cod that’s flaky and delicious!
Easy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Dill Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
For the Roasted Tomatoes:
- 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Optional: 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (to enhance tomato roasting)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon white wine or vegetable broth
For the Dill Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes total from start to finish. It’s simple and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill and Tomatoes:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, grab a baking dish or an oven-safe pan and toss the cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, half of the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If you’d like your tomatoes a little sweeter, drizzle in the honey or maple syrup. Roast them in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven or on the grill in a covered pan for about 15 minutes until they become soft and burst open.
2. Season the Cod:
While your tomatoes are roasting, brush both sides of the cod fillets with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the cod with salt, pepper, and the zest from your lemon to add a burst of flavor.
3. Grill the Cod:
Now, it’s time to grill the cod! Place the fillets on the grill and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. Don’t forget to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
4. Combine Tomato Sauce Ingredients:
Once the tomatoes are done roasting, take them out of the oven and stir in the lemon juice, the remaining garlic, and the fresh herbs: dill, parsley, and chives. If you want a little more sauce, add the white wine or vegetable broth and mix gently.
5. Serve It Up:
Now for the fun part! Place the grilled cod fillets on a serving dish and generously spoon the roasted tomato and herb mixture over the top. It looks so good! Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side, and feel free to sprinkle more fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.
This recipe yields a bright, fresh, and healthy meal that highlights the flaky cod, sweet roasted tomatoes, and the tasty dill sauce. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Dill Sauce
Can I Use Frozen Cod for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw the frozen cod in the refrigerator overnight before using. For a quicker thaw, you can seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Dill?
If you don’t have fresh dill on hand, you can use fresh parsley or chives as alternatives. While they’ll give a different flavor, they’ll still complement the dish nicely. If using dried herbs, use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, try doing it slowly in a pan on low heat to avoid overcooking the fish.
Can I Grill the Tomatoes Instead of Roasting Them?
Yes! If you prefer grilling, place the seasoned tomatoes in a grill-safe basket or use a piece of foil to keep them contained. Grill them over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until they soften and burst, stirring occasionally.
