If you’re craving a dish that bursts with freshness, a perfect balance of tang, and that irresistible grilled flavor, then you have to try this Juicy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe. It’s one of those gems that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal. The tender, flaky cod pairs beautifully with the sweet roasted tomatoes, while the creamy dill sauce adds a bright, herbaceous kick. This recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser that feels both healthy and indulgent—ideal for any night you want to impress without the hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a vital role in building flavors and textures that sing together. From the juicy cherry tomatoes to the fresh dill in the sauce, every component is essential and easy to prepare.
- Cod fillets (4, 1-inch thick): Choose fresh or well-thawed cod for tender, flaky fish that grills beautifully without drying out.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons for grilling, plus 1 tablespoon for coating tomatoes): Adds a subtle fruity flavor and helps achieve that perfect grill sear and roasted tomato sweetness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that enhance every other flavor in this dish without overpowering.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon for fish, 1 tablespoon for sauce): Brightens and lifts the flavors for a fresh, citrusy note.
- Cherry tomatoes (2 cups): Their natural sweetness intensifies when roasted, providing a juicy burst alongside the cod.
- Garlic cloves (3, smashed): Infuses a rustic, savory depth into the roasted tomatoes.
- Greek yogurt (1 cup): Gives the creamy dill sauce a tangy, rich base and creamy texture without heaviness.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Adds lusciousness to the sauce, balancing the yogurt’s tartness perfectly.
- Fresh dill (2 tablespoons, chopped): The star herb brings brightness and a subtle anise flavor that complements both fish and sauce beautifully.
How to Make Juicy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Dill Sauce
Start by combining Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix it thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate this sauce for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld and chill perfectly, giving your fish a cool, refreshing contrast.
Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the tomatoes are juicy and slightly caramelized, which will deepen their natural sweetness and add complexity to the dish.
Step 3: Season and Prepare the Cod
Pat your cod fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush them lightly with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon juice. This simple prep ensures your cod stays moist and flavorful throughout grilling.
Step 4: Grill the Cod
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Carefully place the cod fillets on the grill and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for perfectly opaque, flaky flesh that flakes easily with a fork—signaling it’s just right and incredibly juicy.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Place the grilled cod on individual serving plates. Spoon the roasted tomatoes and garlic on top and then generously drizzle with that dreamy creamy dill sauce. Serve immediately while the flavors are fresh, the fish is warm, and the sauce is cool and tangy.
How to Serve Juicy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra fresh dill or finely chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of green and amplifies the fresh herbaceous notes in the dish. For a little crunch and color, try adding toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds as a final touch.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines best with simple, complementary sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or fluffy quinoa to soak up all the extra sauce. Roasted asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes also pair wonderfully without stealing the spotlight from the cod.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Juicy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, inviting presentation. A small ramekin of extra sauce on the side invites diners to customize each bite. Alternatively, plate the cod over a bed of lightly sautéed spinach for added color and nutrients.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cod, roasted tomatoes, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The fish will stay fresh for up to 2 days, while the sauce can last 3 to 4 days. Keeping them separate helps maintain the best texture and flavor when reheating.
Freezing
While fresh cod is best enjoyed immediately, you can freeze leftover roasted tomatoes and dill sauce. Freeze the tomatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, and the creamy dill sauce in small portions using ice cube trays for quick thawing later. Avoid freezing the cooked cod, as it tends to lose texture when defrosted.
Reheating
To reheat leftover cod, gently warm it in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) until just warmed through, to prevent drying out. Reheat roasted tomatoes in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Serve with the chilled creamy dill sauce for that fresh, cool contrast that makes the dish so delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While this Juicy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe was developed with cod for its mild flavor and flaky texture, other white fish like haddock, halibut, or sea bass can make excellent substitutes. Just adjust grilling time based on thickness to avoid overcooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. All ingredients—including Greek yogurt and mayonnaise—are typically gluten-free, but it’s always smart to double-check labels if you have a gluten sensitivity.
Can I make the creamy dill sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The creamy dill sauce actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for at least 20 minutes or even a few hours. You can prepare it a day ahead and keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to grill cod without it sticking?
Make sure your grill is hot and well-oiled before adding the cod. Brushing the fish with olive oil helps prevent sticking, and using a clean grill grate also does wonders. Avoid flipping the fish too early—wait until it naturally releases from the grill before turning.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes for roasting?
You can, but cherry tomatoes are preferred because they roast quickly and their sweetness intensifies beautifully. If using larger tomatoes, consider slicing them and roasting slightly longer to achieve that same juicy, roasted effect.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about this Juicy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe. It’s a dish that’s approachable yet impressive, bursting with vibrant flavors and contrasting textures that keep every bite interesting. I can’t recommend it enough—whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection.
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Juicy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Juicy Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes and Creamy Dill Sauce recipe features tender, perfectly grilled cod fillets served alongside sweet roasted cherry tomatoes and paired with a tangy, creamy dill sauce. It’s a fresh, flavorful dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Cod and Roasted Tomatoes
- 4 fillets Cod (1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for grilling)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 2 cups Cherry Tomatoes
- 3 cloves Garlic (smashed)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (for coating)
For the Creamy Dill Sauce
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Creamy Dill Sauce: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Refrigerate the sauce for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to chill.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly oiling it.
- Roast the Tomatoes and Garlic: In a bowl, toss the cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare the Cod Fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Cod: Place the cod fillets on the hot grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until the fish becomes opaque, flakes easily with a fork, and is cooked through.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the grilled cod on serving plates. Spoon the roasted tomatoes and garlic over the fish, then drizzle generously with the creamy dill sauce. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cod fillets that are about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the cod in the oven.
- Roasting the tomatoes enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
- The creamy dill sauce can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Adjust seasoning in the sauce and fish as needed to suit your taste preferences.
