Grilled Cod with Romesco Sauce

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Grilled Cod with Romesco Sauce

There are a few meals that instantly make my family gather around the table with genuine excitement—this Grilled Cod with Romesco Sauce is one of them. I first made it on a whim during a hectic weeknight when I was craving something healthy but full of bold flavor. Cod is so underrated in our house, but this recipe has turned everyone into a fan. The smoky, slightly sweet flavor from the romesco sauce paired with the light, flaky grilled cod is a match made in weeknight dinner heaven. The best part? It looks like a restaurant-quality dish but comes together with minimal effort. It’s one of those rare meals that feels special without the stress.

I love how the romesco sauce adds a rustic, comforting touch. Made from roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, and olive oil, it’s silky, savory, and deeply satisfying. The grill marks on the cod give it a smoky edge that balances perfectly with the sauce’s nuttiness and tang. My husband went back for seconds the first time I made it, and my kids asked if we could have it again the next day—total win! It’s now a steady part of our rotation.

Whether you’re looking for a meal to impress guests or just want something nourishing and flavorful on a Wednesday night, this grilled cod delivers every time. I always say this dish is deceptively simple—what looks and tastes like hours of work is actually done in under 30 minutes.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I use a different type of fish instead of cod?
Yes! Haddock, halibut, or even tilapia will work well. Just make sure the fish is firm enough to hold up on the grill.

Do I need an outdoor grill for this recipe?
Nope! A grill pan on the stovetop works just as well. Just get those nice char marks for flavor.

Is romesco sauce spicy?
Not really—it’s more smoky and tangy than spicy. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want heat.

Can I make the romesco sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days and even freezes nicely.

What should I serve with it?
It pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, couscous, or a simple green salad.

What You Need to Make Grilled Cod with Romesco Sauce

For the Cod:

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Romesco Sauce:

1 cup jarred roasted red peppers, drained

½ cup toasted almonds

2 cloves garlic

1 tablespoon sherry vinegar (or red wine vinegar)

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

¼ cup olive oil

Salt to taste

Special Equipment:

Outdoor grill or stovetop grill pan

Food processor or blender

How to Make Grilled Cod with Romesco Sauce

Prep the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry and brush both sides with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the fish.

Make the Romesco Sauce: In a food processor, blend roasted red peppers, almonds, garlic, vinegar, paprika, and cayenne until mostly smooth. With the motor running, drizzle in the olive oil until the sauce is silky. Taste and add salt as needed.

Grill the Cod: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the cod fillets for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Assemble and Serve: Spoon the romesco sauce onto a serving platter. Place grilled cod on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Best Grilled Cod with Romesco Sauce

Use skinless cod for easier grilling and cleaner presentation.

Toast your almonds lightly in a dry skillet to bring out their natural oils and deepen flavor.

Don’t overcook the cod—it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork.

Double the romesco sauce and use leftovers as a dip, sandwich spread, or sauce for roasted veggies.

Let the cod rest for a couple of minutes after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This was restaurant-quality! I couldn’t believe how easy it was. My kids even asked for seconds.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great flavor combo! I used haddock instead of cod, and it worked beautifully. Next time I might add a bit of heat to the sauce.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “A keeper! That romesco sauce is magic. I want to put it on everything.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I liked it but found the sauce a tad thick. I thinned it with a splash of water and it was perfect.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect for busy nights! Fast, healthy, and so flavorful. My husband asked me to make it again tomorrow.”

Printable Recipe

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