Description
This Spanish Grilled Cod with Almond Romesco Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender cod fillets seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, grilled to perfection, and served with a rich, nutty almond romesco sauce made from roasted red peppers, toasted almonds, and spices. Ideal for a healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free dinner inspired by traditional Spanish cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges for serving
For the Almond Romesco Sauce:
- 1 large roasted red bell pepper (jarred or homemade)
- ½ cup blanched almonds (toasted)
- 1 small tomato (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Romesco Sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted red pepper, toasted almonds, chopped tomato, garlic, red wine vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Pulse the mixture until the ingredients are finely chopped. While blending, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the sauce achieves a smooth but slightly textured consistency. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Prepare the Cod: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and brush both sides with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of the cod fillets.
- Grill the Cod: Place the seasoned cod fillets on the hot grill. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork. Flip the fillets gently to prevent breaking.
- Serve: Plate each cod fillet and top generously with the almond romesco sauce. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added zesty flavor.
Notes
- Romesco sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
- This sauce also pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or chicken.
- For a complete meal, consider serving with roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.
