Name: Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 2 cod fillets (6–8 oz each); 1 cup cherry tomatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon salt (divided); ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Nothing says elegant simplicity like a perfectly grilled piece of cod sitting atop a bed of charred cherry tomatoes, all nestled in a pool of creamy dill sauce. This dish is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds—vibrant, savory, and fresh. The flaky tenderness of cod contrasts beautifully with the juicy burst of roasted tomatoes and the luxurious herbed cream underneath.

Whether you’re planning a date night at home or just craving a seafood dinner that feels a little special, this recipe delivers restaurant-style flair without the fuss. It comes together quickly, yet feels indulgent and deeply satisfying. Serve it with crusty bread or a light green salad to round out the meal.

What Makes the Perfect Cod for This Recipe?

When choosing cod for grilling, look for thick, firm fillets that hold their shape on the grill. Fresh wild-caught cod is ideal, but high-quality frozen works just as well if thawed properly. Be sure the fillets are patted dry and lightly oiled before seasoning to achieve a golden, crispy sear.

For this recipe, grilling adds a lightly smoky flavor that elevates the mild sweetness of the fish. Pairing it with high-acid ingredients like tomatoes and a herbaceous creamy sauce keeps each bite balanced and bright.

Ingredients for the Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Cod Fillets – The star of the dish. Choose thick, boneless fillets to ensure juicy, tender results.

Cherry Tomatoes – Their natural sweetness intensifies as they roast, adding bright acidity and depth.

Fresh Dill – Brings freshness and an herbaceous note that complements the cream sauce and fish.

Heavy Cream – Creates the luxurious base of the dill sauce, binding all flavors together.

Garlic – Adds aromatic warmth and savory depth to the cream.

Olive Oil – For drizzling over the fish and tomatoes to promote caramelization.

Lemon Juice – Adds a pop of acidity that lifts the richness of the cream and balances the fish.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the fish, tomatoes, and sauce to taste.

Butter – Adds body and silkiness to the cream sauce.

How To Make the Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Cod Fillets

Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Let them sit at room temperature while you prepare the tomatoes and sauce.

Step 2: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes

Preheat your grill or oven to 425°F. Toss cherry tomatoes in olive oil and a pinch of salt. Arrange them on a foil-lined grill pan or baking sheet. Roast for 12–15 minutes, or until they start to blister and caramelize. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Dill Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add chopped fresh dill, a squeeze of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Step 4: Grill the Cod

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high. Grill the cod fillets for about 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily. Handle carefully to prevent breaking.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Spoon the creamy dill sauce into serving bowls or plates. Pile roasted cherry tomatoes in the center, then gently place grilled cod fillets on top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or a light drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Serving and Storing This Grilled Cod Recipe

This dish is best served fresh off the grill, when the cod is perfectly flaky and the sauce is warm and velvety. Plate it with a slice of rustic sourdough or serve alongside steamed rice or roasted potatoes to soak up the sauce. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully for a light, balanced meal.

To store leftovers, place the cod and tomatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Store the creamy dill sauce separately if possible. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave at low power to avoid overcooking the fish or breaking the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have fresh dill?

You can substitute dried dill, but reduce the quantity to about one-third. Alternatively, fresh parsley or chives can offer a different but still delicious flavor.

Can I use another type of fish?

Absolutely! Halibut, haddock, or sea bass all work well with this preparation. Just adjust cooking time based on thickness.

Is there a dairy-free version of the sauce?

Yes, use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and olive oil instead of butter. Add a bit of Dijon mustard for tang.

Can this be made ahead of time?

While the sauce and tomatoes can be made ahead, it’s best to grill the cod fresh. Reheated fish can dry out quickly.

How can I keep the cod from sticking to the grill?

Make sure the grill is hot and oiled well. Also, avoid flipping the fish too soon—wait until it releases naturally from the grates.

What wine pairs well with this?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish’s light, creamy, and herby notes.

Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If this grilled cod has your taste buds hooked, you’ll want to explore more ocean-inspired dinners that are easy yet elegant:

Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce delivers a rich, buttery finish with minimal effort.
Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup offers a warming, spicy twist on traditional seafood.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo if you’re in the mood for bold, spicy surf-and-turf vibes.
Louisiana Remoulade Sauce makes a perfect dipping companion for grilled fish and shrimp.
Healthy Lemon Butter Baked Cod is another cod favorite that’s fresh and citrusy.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you give it a go, I’d love to know how it turned out! Did you swap in halibut or stick with cod? Try a twist on the sauce?

Drop your thoughts or tweaks in the comments. Your kitchen creativity inspires others too.

For more daily recipe ideas, follow along on my Pinterest: Life with Jam on Pinterest

Grilled Cod with Roasted Tomatoes & Creamy Dill Sauce

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A simple yet elegant seafood dinner featuring perfectly grilled cod fillets served over roasted cherry tomatoes and bathed in a creamy, herb-loaded dill sauce. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Instructions

1. Pat cod fillets dry. Rub with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Let sit at room temp.

2. Toss cherry tomatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Roast at 425°F for 12–15 minutes until blistered.

3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add cream, dill, lemon juice, remaining salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Grill cod on medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until flaky and opaque.

5. To serve, spoon dill sauce onto plates, top with roasted tomatoes, then place grilled cod on top. Garnish with more dill if desired.