Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes in a Creamy Dill Sauce Recipe

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I’ve always believed that simplicity in cooking can still lead to extraordinary results—and this Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes in a Creamy Dill Sauce recipe proves just that. It’s a dish I make when I want something that tastes indulgent but is light, fresh, and comforting all at once. The tender, flaky cod gets a beautiful char from the grill, while the burst cherry tomatoes bring a smoky sweetness that’s incredibly satisfying. And the creamy dill sauce? It ties everything together with a tangy, herbaceous finish that feels both elegant and effortless.

This dish came to life on a summer evening when I wanted something quick yet special, and since then, it’s become a favorite in my kitchen. Whether I’m cooking for myself or serving guests, the combination of grilled fish, roasted vegetables, and a velvety sauce always delivers. I love how each bite captures a bit of smokiness, creaminess, and brightness—making it just as suitable for weeknights as it is for a casual dinner party.

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Why You’ll Love This Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes in a Creamy Dill Sauce

You’ll fall in love with this recipe for so many reasons. First, it’s packed with vibrant flavors—grilled cod offers a mild, buttery taste that pairs beautifully with the sweet acidity of roasted tomatoes. Then there’s the sauce, a rich but balanced dill cream that complements the fish without overwhelming it. It’s light enough for summer, yet cozy enough to enjoy year-round.

It also doesn’t hurt that it looks stunning on a plate. With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, this dish is both accessible and impressive. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for something new to try, this recipe hits the mark on flavor, texture, and presentation.

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What Kind of Cod Should I Use?

When it comes to cod, I recommend going for thick fillets of fresh Atlantic or Pacific cod if available. The fillets should be firm and bright white, which helps them hold up well on the grill without falling apart. Frozen cod can work too—just be sure to thaw it fully and pat it dry before seasoning. If you prefer a milder flavor or need a firmer texture, black cod (also known as sablefish) is a great substitute with a buttery richness.

Look for fillets that are uniform in size to ensure even cooking. Skinless is ideal for this recipe, as we’re focusing on a nice grill sear on both sides of the fish.

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Options for Substitutions

You can easily adapt this recipe based on what you have in your fridge or pantry:

• Fish Alternatives: Halibut, haddock, or sea bass are all excellent stand-ins if cod isn’t available. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness.
• Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry or grape tomatoes are out of season, diced Roma tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes (reconstituted in warm water) can work.
• Dairy-Free Cream Sauce: Use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream in place of heavy cream for a non-dairy version of the dill sauce.
• Herbs: No fresh dill? Try fresh tarragon, parsley, or chives for a different herbal finish.
• Grill-Free Option: If you don’t have access to a grill, pan-searing the cod in a cast iron skillet is a great alternative that still delivers beautiful flavor and texture.

This dish is flexible enough to handle small changes, so don’t be afraid to experiment based on what’s fresh, available, or suits your dietary needs.

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Ingredients for Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes in a Creamy Dill Sauce

• Cod Fillets
  The star of the dish. Choose thick, fresh fillets for a tender and flaky texture that holds up beautifully on the grill.
• Cherry Tomatoes
  These little gems burst with sweet, smoky flavor when roasted and add a vibrant pop of color to the plate.
• Olive Oil
  Used to coat the tomatoes and cod before grilling, olive oil helps achieve that golden sear while adding subtle richness.
• Salt and Black Pepper
  Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the fish and vegetables without overpowering them.
• Garlic (minced)
  Brings warmth and depth to the creamy dill sauce and complements both the tomatoes and cod.
• Heavy Cream
  The base of the sauce, lending it a rich and silky texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Fresh Dill (chopped)
  The signature herb in this recipe. Its bright, grassy flavor pairs perfectly with fish and gives the sauce a fresh, aromatic finish.
• Lemon Juice
  A splash of acidity to brighten the sauce and cut through the creaminess, tying the entire dish together.

These ingredients come together in harmony, creating a dish that’s light yet indulgent, simple yet impressive.

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Step 1: Prepare the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel, then brush both sides lightly with olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes while you prepare the tomatoes and sauce.

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Step 2: Roast the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spread the cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 15–20 minutes, or until they start to blister and char slightly. Remove and set aside.

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Step 3: Grill the Cod

Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan. Place the cod fillets on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Gently remove from the grill and rest for a minute.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, sauté the minced garlic in a bit of olive oil for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the chopped dill and a squeeze of lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for another 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

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Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Spoon the creamy dill sauce onto a plate or shallow bowl. Pile the roasted cherry tomatoes in the center, then gently place the grilled cod fillet on top. Garnish with fresh dill and a light drizzle of olive oil if desired.

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How Long to Cook Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes in a Creamy Dill Sauce

Cooking cod doesn’t take long, which makes this dish ideal for busy evenings. On the grill, cod fillets typically need 3 to 4 minutes per side depending on thickness. You’re looking for a golden crust on the outside and opaque, flaky flesh on the inside.

As for the cherry tomatoes, roasting them at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 20 minutes allows them to blister and caramelize beautifully. The creamy dill sauce comes together in about 5 minutes on the stovetop, making this an all-around fast recipe—done in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes in a Creamy Dill Sauce

• Dry the Fish Well: Patting the cod dry ensures you get a nice sear without it steaming.
• Oil the Grill Grates: Prevent sticking by brushing your grill or grill pan with oil just before cooking the fish.
• Don’t Flip Too Early: Let the fish develop a crust before flipping; if it sticks, it’s not ready yet.
• Use Fresh Dill: It makes a huge difference in flavor compared to dried dill—fresh gives the sauce brightness and life.
• Balance the Sauce: Add lemon juice at the end of the sauce-making process to keep the flavors punchy and fresh.
• Don’t Overcook the Cod: Remove it from the grill as soon as it flakes easily to avoid a dry texture.
• Roast Tomatoes Until Blistered: Let them caramelize slightly—they’ll be sweeter and more flavorful.

These small touches make the dish shine and guarantee a restaurant-quality result every time.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Cod
  Cod cooks fast—leave it on the grill too long, and it can become dry and rubbery. Watch for it to turn opaque and flake easily.
• Skipping the Preheat
  A properly preheated grill or grill pan is essential for achieving that golden crust and preventing sticking.
• Using Too Much Dill
  While dill is the hero herb here, too much can make the sauce overpowering. A tablespoon or two of fresh dill is the sweet spot.
• Not Seasoning Enough
  Both the fish and the tomatoes need salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. Season each component thoughtfully.
• Forgetting to Rest the Fish
  Letting the fish rest for a minute or two after grilling allows juices to redistribute for better texture and flavor.

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What to Serve With Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes in a Creamy Dill Sauce?

Herb-Roasted Baby Potatoes

The crispiness of roasted potatoes complements the creamy sauce and adds a satisfying, earthy bite.

Steamed Asparagus with Lemon Zest

A fresh, green side that pairs beautifully with both the dill sauce and the bright tomatoes.

Crusty Sourdough Bread

Perfect for sopping up every drop of that luscious dill cream.

Cucumber and Red Onion Salad

This light and tangy salad brings extra crunch and refreshment to the plate.

Lemon Rice Pilaf

Subtly citrusy and fluffy, it’s a great base if you want something a little more filling under your fish.

Garlic Green Beans

A simple, vibrant side that adds color and a slight snap to the meal.

Whipped Feta with Pita Chips

For a mezze-style starter or accompaniment, creamy whipped feta brings tang and richness.

A Glass of Chilled Sauvignon Blanc

If you enjoy wine, the herbaceous notes in a Sauvignon Blanc make a seamless match with dill and cod.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain the quality and flavor of the dish:

• Refrigerator: Place the grilled cod and roasted tomatoes in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the creamy dill sauce in a separate container if possible to preserve its texture.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or cream to keep the sauce from separating. Avoid microwaving the fish—it can dry out quickly.
• Freezing: Not recommended for this recipe. The texture of the cod and the cream-based sauce don’t hold up well in the freezer and can become grainy when thawed.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a general estimate per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

These values can vary depending on your exact ingredients, but overall, this dish is a balanced, low-carb, protein-rich option—perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to grill cod without it falling apart?

Make sure the grill or grill pan is hot and well-oiled before placing the fish. Let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes until a crust forms—that’s when it’s safe to flip.

Can I make the creamy dill sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Is it possible to cook the cod in the oven instead?

Absolutely. Bake the seasoned fillets at 400°F (205°C) for about 10–12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Can I use dried dill if I don’t have fresh?

Fresh dill is preferred, but in a pinch, you can use dried dill—use about 1 teaspoon since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What’s a good non-dairy substitute for the cream?

Full-fat coconut milk or a cashew-based cream work well and still give a smooth, rich sauce without dairy.

How do I know when the cod is fully cooked?

The fish will turn opaque and flake easily with a fork. Its internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Can I add other vegetables to the roasted tomatoes?

Definitely. Bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions roast well alongside the tomatoes and add more depth to the dish.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, with a few adjustments. Prepare the components separately, store them individually, and combine right before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

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Conclusion

Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes in a Creamy Dill Sauce is the kind of dish that looks fancy but comes together in under 30 minutes. It’s light, bright, and full of flavor—the flaky cod, the juicy tomatoes, and the herby, velvety sauce make a combination that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner at home, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of elegance and simplicity. Once you try it, it might just become a new go-to in your dinner rotation.

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