Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve come to the right place! Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce is one of those recipes that makes my heart sing. The combination of tender, smoky cod fillets and sweet, blistered cherry tomatoes tossed in a rich dill sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two or a festive family gathering, this meal is sure to impress.

What I love most about this recipe is how it balances simplicity and elegance. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet special. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and goodness that’ll leave everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can get this delightful dish on the table in no time.
• Flavorful combination: The smoky cod paired with sweet roasted tomatoes and creamy dill sauce creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
• Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this dish—who can resist creamy sauces and juicy tomatoes?
• Make it ahead: You can roast the tomatoes earlier in the day and grill the fish just before serving, making it perfect for entertaining.
• Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein from the cod and vitamins from the tomatoes, it’s both nutritious and filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Let’s gather everything you need to create your own masterpiece!

For the Cod

• 2 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

For the Roasted Tomatoes

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Dill Sauce

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp butter

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using salmon or tilapia instead of cod for a different flavor profile.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some crispy breadcrumbs over the top before serving for added texture.
• Go green: Add some spinach or arugula into the mix for extra greens and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or serve with a spicy sauce.

How to Make Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss those vibrant cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Spreading them out on a baking sheet allows them to roast evenly. Roast them for about 20 minutes until they’re blistered and caramelized—this step enhances their sweetness!

Step 2: Prepare the Cod

While your tomatoes are roasting away, pat your cod fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that golden crust we all love! Rub them generously with olive oil and sprinkle on smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Each of these ingredients adds depth of flavor to our lovely fish.

Step 3: Grill the Cod

Now it’s time to heat things up! Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook those cod fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop that beautiful golden crust. You’ll know they’re done when they flake easily with a fork—perfection!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt some butter. Stir in heavy cream, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, fresh dill, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Simmer this creamy goodness for about 2-3 minutes while stirring frequently. This sauce ties everything together beautifully!

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Once everything is cooked to perfection, place those roasted tomatoes in a bowl. Top them with your grilled cod fillets and drizzle generously with that creamy dill sauce you’ve just made. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley—it adds such a lovely touch! Serve immediately while it’s all warm and inviting.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you make the most of your Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh cod and ripe cherry tomatoes will enhance the flavors of your dish significantly. Fresh ingredients are often more flavorful and nutritious, making your meal taste even better.
• Preheat the grill: Ensuring your grill or grill pan is hot before adding the cod creates a perfect sear. A hot grill helps to achieve those delicious grill marks and locks in the moisture, keeping the fish tender.
• Don’t overcook the cod: Cod cooks quickly; aim for 3-4 minutes per side. Overcooking can result in dry fish. Pay attention to the color and texture; it should flake easily when done.
• Let the sauce simmer gently: Allowing your creamy dill sauce to simmer on low heat melds the flavors beautifully without risking curdling. This gentle cooking brings out the best in each ingredient.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to substitute or add other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile. Herbs can elevate your dish and add freshness, making it uniquely yours!

How to Serve Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Presentation is key when serving this beautiful dish! Here are some creative ideas to make your plate as appealing as it is delicious.

Garnishes

• Fresh dill sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh dill not only look lovely but also enhance the herbaceous notes of your creamy sauce.
• Lemon wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the side adds a pop of color and allows diners to squeeze fresh juice over their fish for an extra zing.
• Microgreens: A sprinkle of microgreens adds a touch of elegance and freshness, elevating both taste and appearance.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with grilled cod, offering a healthy crunch.
• Garlic Roasted Asparagus: The earthy flavors of roasted asparagus complement the creamy sauce beautifully while adding vibrant green color to your plate.
• Couscous with Vegetables: Fluffy couscous mixed with seasonal vegetables provides a nice texture contrast and absorbs any extra sauce beautifully.
• Herbed Rice Pilaf: Aromatic rice pilaf infused with herbs serves as a comforting base that balances out the richness of the fish and sauce.

Enjoy creating this delectable meal that not only tastes fantastic but also looks like a work of art on your dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare components in advance, making it a breeze to whip up on busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the grilled cod and roasted tomatoes to cool completely.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Keep the creamy dill sauce in a separate container to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled cod and tomatoes in a freezer-safe container.
• Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• The dish can be frozen for up to 1 month; however, note that the texture may change upon thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat the cod and tomatoes gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them on low power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I use other types of fish instead of cod for this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe features grilled cod, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like haddock or halibut. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also reduce the amount of butter used in the sauce while still achieving a creamy texture.

Can I prepare the creamy dill sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the creamy dill sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just give it a good stir before serving!

What side dishes pair well with Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy and satisfaction in making this Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together wonderful flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!