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Last summer I discovered this amazing Spanish-inspired dish in my kitchen that quickly became our family favorite. The flaky cod gets this beautiful smoky flavor from the grill while my homemade almond romesco sauce adds the most incredible nutty richness. Every time I serve this my guests can't believe how the simple ingredients create such bold Mediterranean flavors. The best part is watching everyone's faces light up with that first perfect bite.
A Recipe Worth Sharing
What I love most about this dish is how it brings those sunny Mediterranean flavors right to your table. The cod stays perfectly light and healthy while that romesco sauce adds this amazing depth that makes everything feel special. I spent weeks perfecting this sauce and now my friends beg me to make extra so they can take some home. Don't let the fancy name fool you this dish is actually so simple to make.
What You'll Need
- Cod Fillets: Four beautiful pieces about 6 ounces each they stay so tender when grilled.
- Almonds: Toast them yourself the smell is incredible.
- Red Bell Pepper: Roasting brings out such amazing sweetness.
- Tomato: I love how it melts into the sauce when roasted.
- Garlic: Roasting makes it perfectly mellow.
- Red Wine Vinegar: Just enough to brighten everything up.
- Smoked Paprika: My secret for that authentic Spanish touch.
- Dried Chili: Add it if you love a bit of heat.
- Olive Oil: Use your best bottle here it makes a difference.
- Lemon Wedges: That fresh squeeze at the end is everything.
Let's Cook Together
- Create Your Magic Sauce
- Start by roasting those peppers tomatoes and garlic until they're beautifully charred. Toast your almonds until they smell amazing then blend everything into this incredible sauce.
- Perfect Your Fish
- Get your grill nice and hot. Brush those cod fillets with olive oil and my special seasoning mix. They only need about 5 minutes per side to get perfectly flaky.
- Bring It All Together
- Layer that gorgeous fish over the sauce add a sprinkle of fresh parsley and some extra toasted almonds for crunch.
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My Kitchen Secrets
Watch your cod carefully it's ready as soon as it flakes with a gentle touch. I often make double batches of the sauce and keep some in the fridge it gets even better after a day or two. Play with the seasonings until you find your perfect balance.
Make It a Meal
We love this with a big green salad on the side or some crispy roasted potatoes. When friends come over I serve it with little Spanish tapas and everyone goes crazy for it. A chilled glass of Albariño wine makes everything feel extra special.
Switch Things Up
Sometimes I use halibut when cod isn't available it works beautifully. My spice loving friends add extra chilies to their sauce. I've even made this for my vegetarian daughter using grilled mushrooms instead of fish and she loves it.
Final Thoughts
This dish has become such a staple in my kitchen. It brings those sunny Spanish flavors to life and never fails to impress. Whether it's a quiet family dinner or a special gathering this recipe always creates beautiful moments around my table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make the romesco sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the romesco sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
- → What can I substitute for cod?
Any firm white fish works well in this recipe. Try halibut, haddock, or sea bass as alternatives to cod.
- → Can I bake the fish instead of grilling?
You can bake the cod in a 400°F oven for about 12-15 minutes. The fish should flake easily when done.
- → Is romesco sauce spicy?
Traditional romesco has a mild heat from the dried chili. You can adjust or omit the chili to control the spice level.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with roasted vegetables, crispy potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Rice or crusty bread also work well to soak up the sauce.
Conclusion
This Spanish-inspired dish pairs perfectly grilled cod with a rich almond romesco sauce. The cod is seasoned with smoked paprika and garlic, while the sauce combines roasted peppers, almonds, and tomatoes for deep flavor.