Welcome, food enthusiasts! If you’re a fan of wholesome seafood dishes that pack a punch in both flavor and cultural heritage, you’ve landed in the right place. Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that transports you straight to the coast of Spain? This Cod with Potatoes and Salsa Verde recipe is a classic Basque delicacy that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you’re seeking a healthy dinner option or a way to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish is for you. Dive in to discover the secrets behind this delicious and nutritious cod dish.

The magic of Basque cuisine lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. For this iconic Cod with Potatoes and Salsa Verde, we’re focusing on fresh, vibrant components that meld together beautifully.

We’re using thick, flaky cod fillets, preferably wild-caught, for their mild, sweet flavor and satisfying texture. Look for fish with a pearly sheen and firm flesh.

Waxy potatoes hold their shape beautifully when boiled, making them perfect for this dish. They absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.

This is where the dish gets its vibrant punch! A fresh, herbaceous sauce that’s simple yet utterly addictive.

Simple additions that elevate the entire dish.

This recipe is designed for a weeknight-friendly meal, coming together in under an hour. Typically, similar cod and potato dishes might take around 45-60 minutes. Our streamlined process, especially the parallel cooking of potatoes and preparation of the salsa verde, makes this a swift culinary victory!

Let’s start with the star condiment! In a food processor, combine the parsley leaves, mint leaves, and minced garlic. Pulse until these are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil until the mixture forms a coarse, vibrant sauce. Stir in the sherry vinegar, season generously with salt and pepper, and add red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasonings—it should be bright, zesty, and herbaceous. Set aside.

While you’re creating the salsa verde, get your potatoes ready. Ensure they are all cut into roughly uniform 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly. Give them a good rinse under cold water to remove excess starch, then drain them thoroughly. Patting them dry is an excellent habit to prevent them from steaming instead of boiling.

Place the prepared potato chunks in a large pot. Cover them with cold water by about an inch. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water – this seasons the potatoes from the inside out! Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain them very well.

While the potatoes are cooking, focus on the cod. Pat the cod fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season both sides of the fish generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

In a large, non-stick skillet, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn it!). Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets into the hot skillet, skin-side down if they have skin (though we generally use skinless for this). Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

To serve, arrange a generous portion of the cooked, drained potatoes on each plate. Carefully place a perfectly seared cod fillet on top of the potatoes. Spoon a generous amount of the vibrant salsa verde over the cod and potatoes. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil if desired, and finish with another grind of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy the symphony of flavors!

This dish is a powerhouse of lean protein and healthy fats. While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, a typical serving (per person) might look something like this:

While this recipe is inherently healthy, here are a few ways to make it even lighter or cater to specific dietary needs without sacrificing flavor:

This Cod with Potatoes and Salsa Verde is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to complement it:

Preventing common errors can elevate your dish from good to phenomenal:

Leftovers can be stored, but this dish is best enjoyed fresh:

There you have it – a simple, yet profoundly flavorful Cod with Potatoes and Salsa Verde that captures the essence of Basque cooking. It’s a testament to how fresh ingredients and a few thoughtful techniques can create a truly memorable meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. ¡Buen provecho!