Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

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Tender, flaky cod is grilled to perfection, then perched on a bed of blistered cherry tomatoes, all bathed in a rich, herbaceous creamy dill sauce. This dish feels like it was made for warm evenings on the patio or cozy indoor dinners when you want something light but full of flavor.

The combination of textures and temperatures makes every bite memorable—smoky char from the grill, juicy tomatoes that burst in your mouth, and a silky sauce with a hint of tang. It’s a seafood dinner that looks elegant but is surprisingly simple to put together, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and entertaining guests.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this savory masterpiece, it’s essential to get your tools lined up. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Cast Iron Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: This is the heart of the recipe. A grill pan ensures those perfect sear marks and smoky char, especially if you’re cooking indoors.
• Nonstick Skillet or Small Saucepan: Vital for preparing the creamy dill sauce without it sticking or scorching.
• Tongs or Fish Spatula: Cod is delicate. Use these to flip the fish gently without breaking it apart.
• Mixing Bowl and Whisk: Essential for combining the ingredients of your dill sauce to a smooth consistency.
• Baking Sheet (Optional): If roasting the tomatoes in the oven, a baking sheet helps them caramelize evenly.

Lining up the right tools not only simplifies the process but also ensures your fish remains intact, your sauce is velvety, and the tomatoes develop those irresistible roasted edges.

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Ingredients for the Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in building its depth of flavor and texture:

• Fresh Cod Fillets: The star of the dish. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor is the perfect canvas for the dill sauce.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sugars caramelize when roasted, adding brightness and a juicy counterbalance to the creamy sauce.
• Olive Oil: Helps achieve that perfect grill sear and enhances the overall richness.
• Fresh Dill: Aromatic and fresh, dill pairs beautifully with fish and adds a herby punch to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Provides the luscious base of the sauce, giving it body and smoothness.
• Garlic: Brings warmth and depth to both the sauce and the roasted tomatoes.
• Lemon Juice: Balances the cream with a touch of acidity and cuts through the richness.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.

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How To Make the Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes

Place cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes until blistered and slightly charred.

Step 2: Season the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel, then brush lightly with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped dill.

Step 3: Grill the Cod

Heat your grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the cod for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until it flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in a bit of olive oil. Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and chopped dill. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened slightly.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the creamy dill sauce onto each plate, top with a handful of roasted tomatoes, and finish with a grilled cod fillet. Garnish with extra dill if desired.

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Serving and Storing Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

This dish is best served immediately while the cod is warm and flaky, and the sauce is fresh from the pan. Pair it with crusty bread, buttery rice, or a light green salad to complete your plate.

If you have leftovers, store the components separately. Place the grilled cod in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the creamy dill sauce in a sealed jar or container for the same duration. Reheat the fish gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out, and warm the sauce slowly on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to loosen it.

Avoid freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate and lose its texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep cod from falling apart on the grill?

Pat the cod dry before grilling and use a hot, well-oiled grill or grill pan. A fish spatula helps flip it gently without breaking.

Can I use frozen cod?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning and grilling.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for the cream sauce?

You can swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a plain, unsweetened dairy-free creamer. The dill and lemon still shine through.

What if I don’t have fresh dill?

Dried dill works too! Use about 1 teaspoon in the sauce if fresh isn’t available.

Can I roast the tomatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely. Roast them up to a day in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat briefly in the oven or skillet before serving.

What wines pair well with this dish?

A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the lemony dill and delicate cod.

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Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you love this grilled cod with roasted tomatoes, you’ll want to try these other ocean-inspired favorites:

• Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce for bright, herb-filled comfort.
• Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce when you’re craving a rich, indulgent seafood feast.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails for a date-night-worthy dinner.
• Seafood Stuffed Shells combining pasta and seafood into a decadent baked dish.
• Louisiana Seafood Gumbo when you’re in the mood for something hearty and soul-warming.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra lemon? Maybe tossed in a few capers? I love seeing how you all make these recipes your own.

Questions are always welcome—let’s keep the kitchen fun and flavorful together.

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