Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and elegant, then Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce is just the thing! This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it perfectly balances fresh flavors with comforting warmth. The tender, smoky cod pairs beautifully with sweet, blistered cherry tomatoes, and that creamy dill sauce? Just heavenly!

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion with loved ones, this meal brings people together around the table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
• Kid-approved: The delightful flavors of cod and roasted tomatoes make this dish a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the sauce or roast the tomatoes ahead of time for an even quicker meal.
• Deliciously versatile: Perfect for any season, this dish feels light yet satisfying.
• Impressive presentation: Serve it up with style—this dish looks as good as it tastes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:

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

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, so feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences!

• Swap in different veggies: Try using zucchini or bell peppers instead of tomatoes for a fresh twist.
• Change the herbs: If dill isn’t your favorite, swap it out for basil or parsley—both will complement the cod beautifully.
• Add some heat: If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce for an extra kick.
• Use another fish: Switch out cod for another white fish like halibut or tilapia if that’s what you have available.

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

Step 1: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss those sweet cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, black pepper, balsamic vinegar, and minced garlic. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes. This step is key as roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds a lovely caramelized flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod

While your tomatoes are roasting away, pat dry those beautiful cod fillets. Rub them with olive oil and season generously with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. This will enhance the fish’s flavor and create that lovely crust when grilled.

Step 3: Grill the Cod

Heat up your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook those fillets for about 3-4 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust and flake easily with a fork. Grilling gives the cod that delicious smoky flavor while keeping it moist and tender.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Stir in heavy cream along with sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, chopped dill, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes while stirring frequently. This sauce is where all those wonderful flavors come together—it’s creamy and tangy!

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

In a bowl, place those beautifully roasted tomatoes at the bottom. Top them with your perfectly grilled cod fillets and drizzle generously with that rich creamy dill sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving! Enjoy this delightful dish immediately while it’s warm and inviting.

Now you’re ready to savor every bite of this comforting meal!

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

Making this delightful dish is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Choose the right cod: Opt for fresh or flash-frozen cod fillets. Freshness ensures the best flavor and texture, while high-quality frozen options are just as nutritious.
• Don’t skip the marination: Allowing the cod to marinate for at least 15 minutes after seasoning enhances its flavor profile. This extra time helps the spices and lemon juice penetrate the fish, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
• Preheat your grill properly: A well-heated grill creates those beautiful grill marks and helps prevent sticking. Make sure your grill or grill pan is adequately preheated to medium-high heat before adding the cod.
• Watch the cooking time: Cod cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it! Overcooking will lead to dry fish. Aim for a golden crust that flakes easily with a fork—this is your indicator of doneness.
• Enhance the sauce: If you want to add a twist to the creamy dill sauce, consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice or zest at the end. It adds brightness that complements both the fish and tomatoes beautifully.

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

Presentation makes all the difference! Here are some ideas to serve this dish in an appealing way.

Garnishes

• Fresh dill sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh dill not only enhance the visual appeal but also boost the herbaceous flavors of your dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serve alongside lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over their portions. The acidity brightens every bite and adds freshness.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa tossed with herbs, nuts, and dried fruit makes for a nutty and slightly sweet side that complements the savory fish wonderfully.
• Steamed Asparagus: Bright green asparagus drizzled with olive oil and seasoned lightly with salt pairs beautifully in terms of both color and flavor.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances out the lighter elements of your meal.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic and balsamic vinegar bring an earthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender cod and tomatoes.

By combining these elements, you’ll create not just a meal but an experience that delights both visually and gastronomically! Enjoy your Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor delicious, homemade flavors throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the cod and sauce cool to room temperature before storing.
• Place the grilled cod and roasted tomatoes in an airtight container.
• Store the creamy dill sauce in a separate container.
• Refrigerate for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure everything is fully cooled.
• Wrap the cod fillets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the roasted tomatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The creamy dill sauce can also be frozen in a suitable container.
• For best quality, consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cod and tomatoes on a baking tray; cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Reheat the creamy dill sauce gently on low heat in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely before marinating and grilling. Frozen cod may need a few extra minutes on the grill.

How long does Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this dish lasts up to 2 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep the sauce separate until ready to serve!

What can I serve with Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce?

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad. The options are limitless!

Can I substitute other fish for cod?

Absolutely! You can use any firm white fish like halibut or haddock as an alternative. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with wonderful flavors that bring comfort and joy. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, you’ll find this dish truly shines on any table. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts—happy cooking!