Name: Cod Provençal
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (5–6 oz each), fresh or thawed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped); ¼ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute broth); ¼ cup Kalamata olives, halved; 1 tbsp capers, rinsed; ½ tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp herbes de Provence (or a mix of rosemary, oregano, and basil); Salt & black pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish; Lemon wedges, for serving

DifficultyBeginner

CategoryFish, Main Courses

Cod Provençal is a bright, heart-healthy dish rooted in the flavors of Provence—ripe tomatoes, olives, garlic, capers, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. The flaky white cod soaks up the rich sauce as it gently simmers, creating a tender and aromatic meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for company.

Yields4 Servings

Prep Time20 minsCook Time25 minsTotal Time45 mins

4 cod fillets (5–6 oz each), fresh or thawed

2 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh ripe tomatoes, chopped)

¼ cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute broth)

¼ cup Kalamata olives, halved

1 tbsp capers, rinsed

½ tsp dried thyme

½ tsp herbes de Provence (or a mix of rosemary, oregano, and basil)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Build the Sauce

Add tomatoes, white wine (or broth), olives, capers, thyme, and herbes de Provence.
Season with salt and pepper, then bring to a simmer.
Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Cook the Cod

Nestle the cod fillets into the sauce in a single layer.
Spoon some sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Finish & Serve

Carefully remove the cod and place on warm plates.
Spoon the sauce generously over the fish.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Serving Ideas

Serve with steamed couscous, buttered orzo, or crusty baguette.
A side of garlicky green beans or roasted zucchini pairs beautifully.

Tips & Variations

For a richer sauce, add a few slivers of sun-dried tomato or a tablespoon of tomato paste.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
Works well with other firm white fish like halibut, hake, or sea bass.

Ingredients