Easy Grilled Cod Recipe with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

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Golden, flaky grilled cod pairs beautifully with blistered cherry tomatoes and a smooth, tangy dill sauce in this stunning yet simple dish. It’s the kind of meal that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together with minimal fuss right in your home kitchen. Every bite brings together the char of the grill, the sweetness of roasted tomatoes, and the velvety herbaceous depth of creamy dill—making this a standout among weeknight dinners or even a relaxed dinner party option.

Despite its elegant presentation, this grilled cod recipe is approachable and fast. It’s a great choice for those looking for easy dinner ideas without compromising on flavor. Plus, it’s light, protein-rich, and naturally gluten-free, making it one of those rare recipes that ticks all the boxes—health-conscious, flavor-packed, and gorgeous on the plate.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Grilled Cod Recipe with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

• Quick and Healthy: Ready in under 30 minutes, packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
• Big Flavor, Minimal Effort: Simple ingredients like fresh dill, garlic, and lemon elevate the taste with little work.
• Stunning Presentation: Perfect for casual dinners or when you want to impress without stress.
• Versatile: Easily pairs with rice, couscous, or crusty bread—or serve on its own for a light meal.
• Naturally Gluten-Free and Low-Carb: Fits a variety of diets without needing substitutions.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and the Importance of Each Tool)

To make this Easy Grilled Cod Recipe with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce come out perfectly every time, it’s important to have a few key tools in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

• Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: A hot grill or grill pan delivers that iconic seared look and flavor. It also helps to keep the fish tender with a slightly crisp exterior. If using an indoor grill pan, ensure it’s cast iron for even heat distribution.
• Non-stick Skillet: Ideal for roasting cherry tomatoes evenly without sticking. You want them blistered, not mushy or burnt.
• Small Saucepan: You’ll use this to simmer and infuse the creamy dill sauce—delicate temperature control is important here to avoid curdling the dairy.
• Fish Spatula: A thin, flexible spatula makes it easy to flip delicate fish fillets without breaking them apart.
• Tongs: Essential for turning tomatoes while roasting and handling the grilled fish gently.
• Mixing Bowl and Whisk: For creating a smooth and emulsified dill sauce.
• Digital Thermometer (Optional): Useful to ensure the cod is cooked to the perfect internal temperature of 145°F without overcooking.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat the Cod Dry: Before seasoning, pat your cod fillets with paper towels. This removes excess moisture, allowing better browning and flavor from the grill.
• Oil the Grill Grates or Pan: Prevent sticking by brushing the grill or grill pan with high-heat oil like avocado or canola before placing the fish down.
• Use Room Temperature Fish: Let your cod rest at room temp for about 15–20 minutes before grilling. Cold fish is more prone to sticking and uneven cooking.
• Roast Tomatoes Separately First: Starting the tomatoes first gives them time to blister properly without rushing the fish.
• Make the Sauce Last-Minute: The dill sauce is best freshly made so it stays bright, smooth, and doesn’t split—don’t let it sit too long before serving.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan or Grill: Give space between the fillets and tomatoes so they sear and caramelize properly instead of steaming.

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Ingredients for This Easy Grilled Cod Recipe with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Here’s everything you need to bring this flavorful, elegant dish to life. Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best results—especially the cod and dill.

For the Grilled Cod:

• 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each), skinless
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Zest of 1 lemon

For the Roasted Tomatoes:

• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pinch of salt and pepper

For the Creamy Dill Sauce:

• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh dill sprigs
• Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil

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Step 1: Prep the Cod Fillets

Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle them with olive oil, then season both sides with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and lemon zest. Set aside and let them come to room temperature while prepping the rest of the dish.

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Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet or in a non-stick skillet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15–20 minutes, shaking the pan once or twice, until tomatoes are blistered and lightly charred. Set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the heavy cream and Dijon mustard, whisking until smooth. Let it warm gently for about 2 minutes—do not let it boil. Add in chopped dill and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat while you grill the cod.

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Step 4: Grill the Cod

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan. Place the seasoned cod fillets onto the grill and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.

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Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Spoon a generous amount of creamy dill sauce into each serving bowl. Nestle roasted tomatoes in the center, then top with a hot grilled cod fillet. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill and an optional drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

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Notes

• Cod Substitutes: If cod isn’t available, this recipe works well with halibut, sea bass, or haddock—just adjust cooking time based on thickness.
• Sauce Customization: For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for heavy cream (just don’t overheat it or it may split).
• Make It a Meal: Add a grain like couscous, orzo, or quinoa underneath for a more filling plate.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Drying Step: Moisture on the fish’s surface prevents a good sear and can cause it to stick. Always pat cod dry before grilling.
• Overcooking the Fish: Cod cooks quickly—keep a close eye and remove it once it’s just opaque and flakes easily. Overcooked cod turns rubbery.
• Boiling the Cream Sauce: Heating cream too fast or to a boil can cause separation. Keep the heat low and stir frequently.
• Crowding the Pan with Tomatoes: Give them space so they roast and blister rather than steam and turn soggy.
• Flipping the Fish Too Early: Let the cod naturally release from the grill before turning. If it sticks, it’s not ready to flip.
• Using Cold Fish: Cold fillets can seize up and cook unevenly. Let them sit out 15 minutes before grilling.

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What to Serve With Easy Grilled Cod Recipe with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

This dish is light, elegant, and full of vibrant flavors—making it a perfect centerpiece for a balanced plate. Whether you’re going for something hearty, fresh, or a touch fancy, here are some great pairings to complete your meal.

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Herb Couscous

Light, fluffy couscous with a touch of olive oil and fresh herbs complements the creamy dill sauce and roasted tomatoes beautifully.

2. Grilled Asparagus

Add some crunch and a touch of char. A squeeze of lemon over the top ties everything together with the cod.

3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

For a comfort-food twist, serve the cod over a bed of velvety mashed potatoes that soak up the sauce perfectly.

4. Lemon Rice Pilaf

A citrusy, herbed rice dish lifts the whole plate and makes it feel even more Mediterranean-inspired.

5. Steamed Green Beans with Almonds

Bright green beans with a bit of texture add a clean and simple contrast to the richness of the sauce.

6. Crusty Artisan Bread

Use it to mop up every last drop of the creamy dill sauce and roasted tomato juices.

7. Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water with Citrus

A crisp drink brings balance and refreshment, especially with the richness of the fish and cream.

8. Simple Mixed Greens Salad

A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze adds a clean, acidic counterpoint to the dish.

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Storage Instructions

This dish is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store everything safely without compromising too much on flavor and texture.

• Grilled Cod: Store cooled fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving—it can dry out the delicate fish.
• Creamy Dill Sauce: Keep in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low heat, whisking to re-emulsify. Do not boil.
• Roasted Tomatoes: Store separately in a sealed container. They’ll last for up to 4 days in the fridge. Serve cold or reheat in a skillet for best texture.

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as the fish and cream sauce don’t retain their quality after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 420mg

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on the exact brands and ingredient quantities used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before grilling. Excess moisture can cause the fish to steam instead of sear.

2. What if I don’t have a grill?

You can use a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or even bake the cod in the oven at 400°F for 12–15 minutes. It won’t have grill marks but will still taste great.

3. Can I make the creamy dill sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat, whisking to bring it back together.

4. What’s a good dairy-free alternative for the sauce?

Try a blend of full-fat coconut milk and a bit of lemon juice, or use a dairy-free yogurt base with fresh dill and garlic for a cold version.

5. How do I know when the cod is done cooking?

It should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout. A digital thermometer should read 145°F at the thickest part.

6. Can I use other herbs besides dill?

Yes, fresh parsley, tarragon, or chives work well. Dill pairs beautifully with cod, but feel free to adjust to your taste.

7. Is this recipe suitable for a keto or low-carb diet?

Absolutely. With under 10g of net carbs per serving, it fits nicely into a low-carb or keto meal plan.

8. Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just be sure not to overcrowd the grill or skillet—work in batches if needed, and keep cooked fish warm in a low oven.

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Conclusion

This Easy Grilled Cod Recipe with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce is a perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. It delivers bold flavor without requiring complicated techniques, and the creamy dill sauce elevates the dish into something memorable. Whether you’re cooking a healthy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe brings freshness, balance, and elegance to your table.

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