Tomato-Roasted Cod Spiced Almonds

The first time I made this cod dish was on a drizzly Tuesday evening when I needed something bright and warming but also quick. The smell of toasted almonds and spices filled my tiny kitchen, making it feel much cozier than it actually was. My roommate wandered in from her room asking what on earth smelled so incredible, and ended up staying for dinner.

Ive served this to dinner guests who swear they dont like fish, only to watch them go back for seconds. Something about the combination of warm spices and bright tomato sauce makes even skeptics reconsider. Last summer my sister requested it for her birthday dinner instead of going out to eat.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets: Look for firm, translucent pieces that smell like the ocean not fishy, about 150g each works perfectly for portion control
• 400g diced tomatoes: Canned work beautifully here but quality matters, I use San Marzano when I can find them
• 2 garlic cloves: Freshly minced releases more oils than pre-minced, trust me on this difference
• 1 small onion: Finely chopped so it melts into the sauce rather than leaving chunky bits
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This is what gives the dish its depth, regular paprika just doesnt have the same soul
• 40g sliced almonds: Buy them already sliced to save time, they toast faster and more evenly than whole ones
• 200g basmati rice: Long grain stays fluffy and separate, perfect for soaking up that gorgeous sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger: Grated finely so it infuses the rice without creating fibrous bits
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Adds that final pop of color and fresh flavor that makes everything taste alive

Instructions

Get your rice going first:

Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the grated ginger and cook for just 1 minute until you can smell it bloom. Add the rice, stir to coat each grain, then pour in the water and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a gentle simmer, cover tightly, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it steam, covered, for 5 more minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Build that tomato sauce:

While rice simmers, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic for just 1 minute, then pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, oregano, and chili flakes if you like some heat. Let everything simmer together for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the spices have married.

Prep the fish for roasting:

Lightly oil a baking dish and spread that gorgeous tomato sauce across the bottom. Pat your cod fillets completely dry with paper towels, season both sides with salt and pepper, then arrange them right on top of the sauce. Drizzle each fillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Roast until tender:

Slide the dish into a 200°C oven and roast for 12 to 15 minutes. Youll know its done when the fish flakes easily with a fork but still looks moist and translucent at the center.

Toast the spiced almonds:

While the cod roasts, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds along with coriander, cumin, paprika, and salt. Toast them, stirring constantly, until the almonds turn golden and smell incredibly fragrant, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer immediately to a plate so they stop cooking.

Bring it all together:

Pile fluffy ginger rice onto each plate, top with a piece of that tomato roasted cod, and spoon plenty of sauce over everything. Finish with a generous sprinkle of toasted almonds, fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

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This recipe has become my go-to when friends are going through tough times. Theres something about tender fish with warm, spiced sauce that feels like a hug on a plate. My neighbor still talks about the night I brought her a container after she had surgery.

Making It Your Own

Sometimes I swap in halibut or sea bass when they look particularly fresh at the market, though cod really is perfect here. Once I used mahi mahi and while it worked, the texture was a bit meatier than I prefer for this dish.

Worth The Splurge

Good smoked paprika costs more but it absolutely transforms the sauce into something restaurant worthy. I buy it in small quantities and keep it in a dark cabinet to preserve that gorgeous smoky intensity.

Perfect Pairings

A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. I also love roasted asparagus or green beans when theyre in season, simply prepared with olive oil and salt.

• A dry Riesling has just enough sweetness to complement the spices
• Sauvignon Blanc brings bright acidity that balances the oily almonds
• Sparkling water with lemon works perfectly if youre avoiding alcohol

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Theres something deeply satisfying about a meal that looks impressive but comes together so effortlessly. Hope this finds its way into your regular rotation.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use a different type of fish for this preparation?

Absolutely! While cod is suggested, you can easily substitute it with another firm white fish like halibut, snapper, or even thick-cut tilapia fillets. Adjust cooking time slightly if your chosen fish is thicker or thinner to ensure it cooks through without drying out.

→ Can the tomato sauce be prepared in advance?

Yes, the zesty tomato sauce is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can significantly reduce your active cooking time on the day you plan to serve the meal.

→ What if I have an almond allergy or prefer not to use them?

If you have an allergy or simply wish to omit the almonds, the dish will still be delicious. For a different crunchy topping, you could lightly toast pine nuts or even some breadcrumbs with a touch of garlic and herbs. Ensure any substitutions align with your dietary needs.

→ How can I increase the heat level in this dish?

To add more spice, simply increase the amount of chili flakes used in the tomato sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers to achieve your desired level of warmth and kick.

→ What side dishes or beverages pair well with this meal?

This vibrant meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, steamed asparagus, or a side of sautéed spinach. For beverages, a dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc would complement the flavors beautifully. You can also enjoy it with a light, refreshing sparkling water with a lemon twist.

→ How should I store and reheat any leftovers?

Store any leftover cod, sauce, and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the cod and sauce gently in a microwave or oven (covered to prevent drying), and the rice can be warmed separately. Avoid overcooking the fish when reheating to maintain its tenderness.