Coconut Basil Lime Cod: Quick Dinner
A vibrant and quick-cooking fish dish featuring tender cod fillets simmered in a creamy coconut milk sauce, brightened with fresh lime and aromatic basil. Perfect for a healthy, flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb cod fillets fresh or thawed
- 1 can full-fat coconut milk 13.5 oz
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
- 1 tbsp fish sauce optional
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
- 1/4 cup cilantro fresh
- 1 small red chili sliced
Instructions
- Pat cod fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in coconut milk, lime juice, and fish sauce (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully place cod fillets into the simmering sauce. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fish.
- Stir in the fresh chopped basil during the last minute of cooking.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional red chili slices.
Notes
For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce with the garlic and ginger. This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice or quinoa, and a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.