For a bold take on roast cod, we created a one-dish meal inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean. Using the pantry-friendly combination of tender jarred baby artichokes, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and briny kalamata olives as our base kept prep work light and promised to infuse the mild fish with multiple layers of flavor. We roasted the artichokes first, tossing them with the tomatoes’ packing oil to deepen their subtle flavor. We stirred in the sun-dried tomatoes and chopped olives as well as some grated lemon zest before finally nestling in the cod fillets, brushing them with more of the potent tomato oil. The vegetables’ flavors melded and flavored the cod as it gently roasted, cooking to perfect tenderness. By the end of its brief roasting time, this fuss-free cod dinner boasted incredible complexity. While we prefer the flavor and texture of jarred whole baby artichokes, you can substitute 18 ounces frozen artichoke hearts, thawed and patted dry, for the jarred. You can substitute haddock or halibut for the cod.
Ingredients
3 cups jarred whole baby artichokes packed in water, halved, rinsed, and patted dry
3/4 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained, 1/4 cup oil reserved
Salt and pepper
1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, chopped coarse
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon juice
4 (6- to 8‑ounce) skinless cod fillets, 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Directions
1 Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 450 degrees. Toss artichokes with 2 tablespoons tomato oil in bowl, season with salt and pepper, and spread into 13 by 9‑inch baking dish. Roast artichokes until lightly browned, about 15 minutes.
2 Remove baking dish from oven and stir in olives, lemon zest, tomatoes, and 1 tablespoon tomato oil. Pat cod dry with paper towels and nestle into vegetables. Brush cod with remaining 1 tablespoon tomato oil and season with salt and pepper.
3 Roast until cod flakes apart when gently prodded with paring knife and registers 140 degrees, 15 to 18 minutes. Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with basil, and serve.
Copyright 2017 America's Test Kitchen
Each week, The Splendid Table brings you stories that expand your world view, inspire you to try something new, and show how food connects us all. We rely on your generous support. For as little as $5 a month, you can have a lasting impact on The Splendid Table. And, when you donate, you’ll join a community of like-minded individuals who love good food, good conversation, and kitchen companionship. Show your love for The Splendid Table with a gift today.
Thank you for your support.
Donate today for as little as $5.00 a month. Your gift only takes a few minutes and has a lasting impact on The Splendid Table and you'll be welcomed into The Splendid Table Co-op.