This easy grilled cod is a treat, especially with the bright and flavorful homemade romesco sauce. The fish cooks quickly, making it perfect for a speedy meal!
I love how the nutty and tangy romesco sauce pairs perfectly with the mild cod. It’s packed with flavor, and you’ll find yourself wanting to put it on everything! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cod: Fresh cod fillets are the star here. They’re mild and flake beautifully when cooked. If you can’t find cod, try haddock or tilapia as tasty alternatives.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is best for both grilling and the romesco sauce. If you prefer, avocado oil works great for grilling too!
Red Bell Peppers: These give the romesco its rich flavor. If you want something different, roasted tomatoes can add a unique twist. You can also use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience.
Almonds: They provide crunch and nuttiness in the sauce. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a good substitute.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can work, but you might miss that depth. A touch of chipotle powder can offer a nice kick and smokiness.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Cod?
Grilling cod can be tricky, but if you follow a few simple tips, it turns out delicious every time!
- Dry the fillets well with paper towels. This helps them to sear nicely and prevents sticking.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high. Giving it time to heat up is key for nice grill marks.
- Oil your grill grates lightly before cooking. It helps prevent the fish from sticking.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Remember that cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
Easy Grilled Cod with Homemade Romesco Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Grilled Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each), skin on or off
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Thinly sliced green onions, for garnish
For the Homemade Romesco Sauce:
- 2 large red bell peppers
- 1 medium tomato, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup almonds, toasted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 slice of rustic bread, toasted and torn into pieces
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation plus 30 minutes for cooking and roasting. You’ll spend some time making the romesco sauce and grilling the fish, resulting in a delicious dish ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Romesco Sauce:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the whole red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast them for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the skin is blackened and blistered. Once done, remove them from the oven and place them in a bowl covered with plastic wrap or in a sealed bag to steam for about 10 minutes. This will help loosen the skins for easier peeling.
After steaming, peel off the skin and remove the seeds from the peppers. In a food processor, combine the roasted red peppers, chopped tomato, toasted almonds, minced garlic, torn bread, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne if desired. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil to blend everything together and create a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper, then set the sauce aside.
2. Prepare the Cod:
Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Lightly rub both sides of the fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the cod for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. They should be cooked through and beautifully charred, flaky and opaque in appearance.
3. To Serve:
Take your prepared plates and spoon a generous amount of romesco sauce onto each one. Carefully place the grilled cod fillets on top of the sauce. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some freshly sliced green onions for added flavor and crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious meal!
This dish goes wonderfully with simple roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad, making for a balanced and delightful dining experience. Enjoy the contrast of smoky, nutty romesco with the tender, flaky cod!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Cod with Homemade Romesco Sauce
Can I Use Other Types of Fish?
Absolutely! While cod is a great choice due to its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can also use haddock, tilapia, or even salmon for a richer taste. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of fish you choose, as thicker fillets will take longer to cook.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled cod and romesco sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The cod will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the sauce can last about a week. To reheat the fish, gently warm it in the oven or on a low heat in a skillet to avoid drying it out.
Can I Make the Romesco Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The romesco sauce can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious! Just give it a stir before serving.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This grilled cod pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or even quinoa for a nutritious meal. You can also serve it over pasta or rice to soak up the delicious romesco sauce!
