Roasted Red Pepper Cod (Printable)

Tender cod simmered in silky roasted red pepper sauce with garlic, smoked paprika and lemon.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fish

01 - 4 cod fillets, approximately 5.3 oz each, skinless and boneless
02 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
03 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Roasted Red Pepper Sauce

04 - 2 large roasted red bell peppers, drained
05 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
06 - 1 small yellow onion, chopped
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes, optional
10 - 1/2 cup vegetable broth or fish stock
11 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
14 - Lemon wedges, for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute longer.
03 - Add roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, and chili flakes if desired. Stir and cook for 2 minutes to intensify flavors.
04 - Transfer mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to purée until smooth. Return the sauce to the skillet.
05 - Stir in vegetable broth and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
06 - Arrange the seasoned cod fillets in the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
07 - Divide portions onto serving plates. Spoon sauce generously over cod fillets. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • You get a silky, smoky sauce that makes everyday fish taste like a chef’s special.
  • There’s almost no prep fuss, but it makes everyone who tries it feel instantly spoiled.
02 -
  • If you overcook the cod, it will fall to pieces and lose its silkiness—start checking early.
  • Blending the sauce super smooth makes it feel restaurant-worthy; even a few seconds can change the texture.
03 -
  • Always taste your sauce before adding the fish; a little more lemon or salt can totally transform the dish.
  • The garnish isn’t just for show—the fresh parsley and lemon are essential for a balanced bite.