Baked Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
**Baked Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce** This simple yet flavorful dish combines the delicate texture of cod with a vibrant and tangy roasted red pepper sauce. The sauce is infused with fresh basil, lemon zest, and juice, creating a bright and herbaceous flavor that complements the mild taste of the fish. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes and requires minimal effort. **Ingredients:** - 1 pound cod fillets - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup roasted red peppers, diced - 1/2 cup low-FODMAP tomato sauce - 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil - 1 lemon, zested and juiced - 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional) **Instructions:** 1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 3. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. 4. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet. 5. In a bowl, combine the roasted red peppers, tomato sauce, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. 6. Pour the sauce over the cod fillets. 7. (Optional) If desired, whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce for a thicker consistency. 8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. 9. Serve immediately.
**A Culinary Journey Through the Ages** The origins of baking cod with roasted red pepper sauce can be traced back to the humble kitchens of coastal towns and villages throughout history. From the bustling marketplaces of ancient Greece to the cozy hearths of medieval Europe, this dish has been a staple in the culinary repertoire for centuries. In the early days, cod was often preserved by salting or drying, which allowed it to be transported and stored for extended periods. When it came time to prepare the fish, it was typically rehydrated and cooked in simple stews or broths. Over time, as culinary techniques evolved, the addition of roasted red peppers to the dish became a popular way to enhance its flavor and nutritional value. In the Mediterranean region, where sun-ripened red peppers are abundant, this sauce became a beloved accompaniment to various fish dishes. The vibrant color and sweet, tangy flavor of the peppers added a burst of freshness and complexity to the delicate taste of the cod. As trade routes expanded, the popularity of this dish spread throughout Europe and beyond. During the Renaissance, when culinary arts flourished, chefs began experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to create more elaborate versions of this classic dish. Herbs such as basil and oregano were added to the sauce for their aromatic qualities, while lemon zest and juice provided a bright and citrusy touch. The use of cornstarch as a thickener became common, allowing the sauce to adhere better to the fish and create a more satisfying mouthfeel. Today, baked cod with roasted red pepper sauce remains a popular dish that is enjoyed in homes and restaurants around the world. Its simplicity, versatility, and delicious flavor make it a timeless culinary creation that continues to delight palates across generations.
Baked Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Baked Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Baked Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Baked Cod with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 pound cod fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers, diced
  • 1/2 cup low-FODMAP tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional)
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. In a bowl, combine the roasted red peppers, tomato sauce, basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  6. Pour the sauce over the cod fillets.
  7. (Optional) If desired, whisk the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce for a thicker consistency.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  9. Serve immediately.
Why It Works
  • **The delicate flavor of cod pairs perfectly with the vibrant and tangy roasted red pepper sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
  • **Roasting the red peppers intensifies their sweetness and caramelizes their natural sugars, resulting in a rich and flavorful sauce.
  • **The addition of fresh basil adds a herbaceous aroma and freshness to the dish, complementing the earthy flavors of the peppers and cod.
  • **Lemon zest and juice brighten the sauce with a citrusy tang, enhancing the overall flavor profile and preventing it from becoming too heavy.
  • **The optional use of cornstarch as a thickener creates a smooth and velvety sauce that adheres well to the fish, ensuring a satisfying eating experience.