Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Packed with rich Mediterranean flavors, this Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod recipe is a perfect low-carb dinner option that’s indulgent yet healthy. Featuring tender, flaky cod fillets cooked in a luscious cream sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is as elegant as it is easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or a fancy dinner party, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Keto-Friendly: Low in carbs, high in healthy fats, and packed with protein.
2. Bursting with Flavor: A creamy sauce infused with garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknights.
4. Healthy Comfort Food: Indulgent without being heavy or carb-laden.
5. Versatile: Easily adaptable with other proteins or vegetables.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cod

1. Pat the Cod Dry: Use paper towels to pat the fillets dry. This ensures a good sear and prevents sticking.
2. Season the Fillets: Sprinkle both sides of the cod with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
3. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Tuscan Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter.
2. Cook Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
5. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Return Cod to the Skillet: Gently nestle the cod fillets into the creamy sauce. Spoon sauce over the fish and let simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm through.
2. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Add more salt or pepper as needed.
3. Serve Hot: Transfer to plates or serve directly from the skillet for a family-style meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Zucchini Noodles: Keep it keto-friendly with spiralized zucchini as a side.
• Cauliflower Rice: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed Asparagus: A light and healthy pairing.
• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together a quick salad with olive oil and lemon juice.

Tips for Success

1. Choose Fresh Cod: Fresh cod fillets provide the best flavor and texture. Frozen fillets can be used if thawed and patted dry.
2. Don’t Overcook the Cod: Cod cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Look for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork.
3. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach, good Parmesan cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best flavor.
4. Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
5. Customizable Heat: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

Variations

Protein Swaps

• Salmon: Replace cod with salmon fillets for a richer flavor.
• Shrimp: Large shrimp or prawns cook quickly and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts make a great alternative.

Vegetable Additions

• Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add earthiness to the dish.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Add fresh cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
• Kale: Substitute or combine with spinach for a heartier green.

Dairy-Free Option

• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, then add freshly cooked cod.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent overcooking the cod.

Can I Use Other Types of Fish?

Yes, any firm white fish, such as halibut, haddock, or tilapia, works well in this recipe.

Is This Dish Spicy?

The red pepper flakes add mild heat, but you can omit them for a completely non-spicy dish.

The Magic of Tuscan Flavors

The combination of garlic, cream, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes is a hallmark of Tuscan-inspired cooking. This dish perfectly balances the creaminess of the sauce with the fresh and savory notes of the vegetables and fish, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet light.

Conclusion

Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a restaurant-quality dish that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re on a keto diet or simply love rich, flavorful meals, this recipe is sure to impress. Serve it at your next dinner party or make it a part of your weeknight rotation for a meal that’s healthy, satisfying, and utterly delicious.

Ready to try this dish? Gather your ingredients and let the flavors of Tuscany transform your dinner table!

Yield: 4

Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

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Packed with rich Mediterranean flavors, this Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod recipe is a perfect low-carb dinner option that’s indulgent yet healthy. Featuring tender, flaky cod fillets cooked in a luscious cream sauce with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, this dish is as elegant as it is easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or a fancy dinner party, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Cod:
• 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• For the Creamy Sauce:
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and sliced)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach
• Garnish:
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cod

1. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Sear the cod fillets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and just cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside on a plate.

2. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

3. Add the Spinach and Cod

1. Add the spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted.
2. Return the cod fillets to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over the top. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to warm the fish and meld the flavors.

4. Serve

1. Transfer the cod and creamy sauce to plates or a serving dish.
2. Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese.

Notes

• Use fresh cod for the best flavor and texture. Substitute with haddock or halibut if preferred.
• Don’t overcook the cod: It should flake easily with a fork but remain moist.
• Adjust the creaminess: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan cheese.
• Serving Suggestions
• Pair with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a simple green salad for a complete keto-friendly meal.
• A drizzle of lemon juice can brighten the flavors and add a citrusy zing.