Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those short on time.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from the cod and vitamins from the spinach and tomatoes, it's a wholesome meal option.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, making each bite delicious.
- Minimal Cleanup: Cooking the fish in foil packets keeps the process tidy and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
- 1 (4-ounce) cod fillet
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pinch garlic powder, or to taste
- ¼ cup roughly chopped spinach
- ¼ tomato, seeded and diced
- 1 tablespoon chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 slice mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Grill: Set your outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the Foil Packet: Place the cod fillet on a piece of aluminum foil. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Top with chopped spinach, diced tomato, and onion. Season again with salt and black pepper. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top, then add the mozzarella cheese cubes. Fold the foil over the cod to create a sealed packet.
- Grill the Fish: Place the foil packet on the preheated grill and cook until the fish flakes easily with a fork, approximately 7 to 9 minutes.
- Serve: Carefully open the foil packet, transfer the contents to a plate, and enjoy your meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 1.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Baked Version: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and bake the foil packet on a baking sheet for 10-12 minutes.
- Herb Enhancements: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for additional flavor.
- Cheese Alternatives: Substitute mozzarella with feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Additional Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for more variety.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may overcook the fish.
FAQs
What type of fish can I use instead of cod?
You can substitute cod with other white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly before using to remove excess moisture.
Is it possible to cook this without a grill?
Absolutely, you can bake the foil packet in the oven at 450°F (232°C) for 10-12 minutes.
How do I know when the fish is cooked?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque.
Can I add other seasonings?
Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
What side dishes pair well with this meal?
Rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad complement this dish nicely.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can assemble the foil packet ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook, up to 4 hours in advance.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it's low in carbohydrates and fits well into a low-carb diet plan.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly, cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or cheddar can be used as alternatives.
How can I prevent the fish from sticking to the foil?
Lightly coat the foil with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil before placing the fish on it.
Conclusion
This Grilled Cod with Spinach and Tomatoes recipe is a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-prepare meal that's perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility make it a great addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!
Grilled Cod with Spinach and Tomatoes
This Grilled Cod with Spinach and Tomatoes is a healthy, easy-to-make dish featuring flaky cod fillets cooked with fresh spinach, juicy tomatoes, and melted mozzarella. Seasoned with garlic, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, this dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light weekend meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is great for busy schedules and minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Dinner, Seafood
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 (4-ounce) cod fillet
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pinch garlic powder (or to taste)
- ¼ cup roughly chopped spinach
- ¼ tomato, seeded and diced
- 1 tablespoon chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 slice mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill – Set your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the Foil Packet – Place the cod fillet on a piece of aluminum foil. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add chopped spinach, diced tomato, and onion. Season again with salt and black pepper. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the top, then add the mozzarella cheese cubes. Fold the foil over the cod to create a sealed packet.
- Grill the Fish – Place the foil packet on the preheated grill and cook for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve – Carefully open the foil packet and transfer the contents to a plate. Enjoy!
Notes
- Baking Alternative: Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of grilling.
- Cheese Variations: Try feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more variety.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to prevent overcooking.
