Delicious Cod Polenta: A Culinary Delight

If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game, look no further than this scrumptious cod polenta recipe. Combining the creamy texture of polenta with the delicate flavors of cod, this dish offers a medley of contrast that will impress your family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to enjoy a delightful meal at home, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Polenta:

• 1 cup cornmeal (preferably coarse or medium grind)
• 4 cups water (or chicken or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish

For the Cod:

• 4 pieces of fresh cod (about 6 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: paprika or chili flakes for some heat

For the Sautéed Vegetables (optional):

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Polenta

1. Boil the Liquid: In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt.
2. Add the Cornmeal: Gradually whisk in the cornmeal to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and stir constantly until the polenta thickens (about 20-25 minutes). If it gets too thick, you can add more liquid to reach your desired consistency.
3. Enhance the Flavor: Once thickened, stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese, if using. Mix well and keep warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Cod

1. Marinate the Cod: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and optional paprika or chili flakes. Add the cod pieces, making sure they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Cod: In a skillet over medium heat, add the marinated cod fillets. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the cod as it can become dry.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables (Optional)

1. Cook the Veggies: In a separate skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Plate the Polenta: Spoon a generous portion of polenta onto each plate, creating a bed for the cod.
2. Add the Cod: Place a fillet of cod on top of the polenta.
3. Add Vegetables: If you prepared the sautéed vegetables, nestle them alongside the fish.
4. Garnish: Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color and added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Cod polenta pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad or steamed greens like asparagus or spinach. You might also consider a glass of chilled white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the dish perfectly.

This cod polenta recipe is not only simple but also allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. The creamy polenta serves as a comforting base for the light and flaky cod, while the optional sautéed vegetables bring color and nutrition to the plate. Give this recipe a try for your next meal, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and tastes that it brings to your table. Happy cooking!