Jul 17 2026
RestaurantsNicole's RestaurantPesto Crusted Cod Recipe

Pesto Crusted Cod Recipe

Time45m
Serves4

lemon basil risotto, zucchini, basil chimichurri

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Ingredients

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Pesto Crust

Zucchini

Basil Chimichurri

Method

Pesto Crust Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Pesto

    In a food processor, combine basil leaves, parmesan cheese, pine nuts, garlic, olive oil, and salt. Blend until smooth.

  2. 2

    Prepare Cod

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place cod fillets on a baking sheet and spread the prepared pesto evenly over the top of each fillet.

Lemon Basil Risotto Preparation

  1. 3

    Sauté Onion

    In a saucepan, heat 2 tbs of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

  2. 4

    Cook Rice

    Add arborio rice to the saucepan and stir for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until absorbed. Repeat until rice is creamy and al dente.

  3. 5

    Finish Risotto

    Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and chopped basil. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine flavors.

Zucchini Preparation

  1. 6

    Sauté Zucchini

    In a skillet, heat 2 tbs of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced zucchini and season with salt and black pepper. Sauté until tender and slightly caramelized.

Basil Chimichurri Preparation

  1. 7

    Prepare Chimichurri

    In a bowl, combine fresh basil leaves, parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.

Final Assembly

  1. 8

    Bake Cod

    Place the baking sheet with the cod in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily.

  2. 9

    Serve

    Plate the lemon basil risotto, sautéed zucchini, and the pesto crusted cod. Drizzle with basil chimichurri before serving.

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