📖 Instructions

1. First, prep your cod fillets. Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps them sear nicely. Season generously with salt and pepper. I like to use sea salt – it just tastes a little bit fancier, you know?
2. Next, grab your skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place your cod fillets in the pan. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed. We don't want to steam the fish, we want a beautiful sear!
3. Sear the cod for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to gently flip. If it sticks, it's not quite ready to flip! Be patient!
4. While the cod is searing, prepare your tomatoes and garlic. Finely chop the garlic, and halve or quarter your Roma tomatoes, depending on their size. Remember to wash your hands, or else your fancy dinner might get a little..gritty.
5. Once the cod is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium. Add another tablespoon of olive oil (or butter, if you're feeling decadent) to the skillet. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic! It'll taste bitter.
6. Add your tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, but I highly recommend it!) Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and released their juices. Stir occasionally. You want a slightly chunky sauce, not a puree.
7. Stir in your fresh basil, season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually add a squeeze of lemon juice at this point – just a touch. It brightens everything up!
8. Return the cod to the skillet. Gently toss it with the tomato sauce to coat the fillets evenly. This is where the magic happens. A little bit of sauce on the fish, that's what dreams are made of.
9. Serve immediately. Garnish with extra basil if you're feeling fancy. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up that amazing tomato sauce. Enjoy! Let me know what you think in the comments below!