If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the Italian coast but fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, the Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is going to become your new favorite dinner. This delightful meal combines tender cod fillets with a luscious, herb-infused cream sauce bursting with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese, making each bite a celebration of rich flavors and comforting textures. It’s a recipe that’s as simple to make as it is delicious, effortlessly bringing gourmet taste to your weeknight table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to capturing that signature creamy and savory balance in this dish. Each component brings something unique, from the fresh brightness of spinach to the deep umami of sun-dried tomatoes, making your Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe truly unforgettable.
- 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each): Choose fresh, firm cod for the best texture and flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a golden, crispy sear.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Garlic provides a fragrant base and depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped): Their intense sweetness and chewiness contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Adds fresh juiciness and a pop of color.
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach: Brings vibrant color and a mild, earthy flavor to the dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The backbone of the sauce, providing luscious creaminess that defines the recipe.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness of the cream sauce.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of green and freshness at the end.
How to Make Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Cod
Start by patting the cod fillets dry with paper towels—this helps create a beautiful golden crust when cooking. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place the cod in the hot pan, cooking each side for about 3 to 4 minutes. The goal is a golden sear with fish cooked just through. Transfer the seared cod to a plate and set aside for later—don’t worry, the sauce will finish the cooking process and keep the fish moist.
Step 2: Build the Flavorful Base
In the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—the aroma will start filling your kitchen, making it impossible not to get excited. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and cherry tomatoes, cooking them for 2 to 3 minutes until the cherry tomatoes soften and the sun-dried tomatoes release their intense flavor, setting the perfect stage for the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Next, add the fresh baby spinach straight into the skillet. Stir it gently until it wilts down, shedding its volume but retaining that delightful fresh taste and vibrant green color. This step not only boosts the nutritional profile but adds a lovely texture to the dish.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Tuscan Sauce
Turn the heat down to low and pour in the heavy cream. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and the dried Italian seasoning, stirring continuously. Allow the sauce to simmer gently; this will thicken and develop a silky texture over 3 to 5 minutes. The combination of Parmesan and Italian herbs gives the sauce its signature Tuscan flair.
Step 5: Final Touches and Combine
Stir in the fresh lemon juice—it’s the secret punch that balances all the creamy richness with bright acidity. Now, gently nestle the cod fillets back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let everything warm together for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully and the fish finishes cooking to tender perfection.
How to Serve Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a fantastic garnish that offers both color contrast and a burst of herbaceous freshness. For an extra touch of luxury, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan just before serving—this boosts flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with low-carb sides to keep within your keto goals. Think buttery mashed cauliflower, roasted asparagus, or a crisp, tangy arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. These sides complement the creamy sauce without overpowering the delicate cod.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant presentation, serve the cod on a wide, shallow plate with the creamy sauce spooned generously around and over the fish. Alternatively, layering the cod atop a bed of sautéed zucchini ribbons or cauliflower rice adds volume and a beautiful visual appeal, making meal time feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The creamy sauce may thicken upon chilling, so be sure to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring back its perfect consistency.
Freezing
While the cod and sauce freeze well, it’s best to freeze them separately if possible. Place the cooled sauce in a freezer-safe container, and wrap the cod fillets tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Both can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Reheat the dish gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a little extra cream or broth can refresh the sauce’s texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cod is perfect for its mild flavor and flaky texture, firm white fish like halibut, haddock, or sea bass work wonderfully and hold up well in the creamy Tuscan sauce.
Is this recipe suitable for a strict keto diet?
Yes, this Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is made with low-carb ingredients and healthy fats, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious and creamy.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
When searing, cook the cod until each side is golden brown and just cooked through, usually 3–4 minutes per side. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still feel moist. It will finish cooking gently in the sauce.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini when cooking the tomatoes and spinach. Just keep in mind the additional carbs if you are strictly monitoring your keto intake.
Final Thoughts
I’m genuinely excited for you to try the Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing, perfect for those moments when you want something special yet simple. With that rich, velvety sauce and tender fish, this recipe brings the warmth of Italian-inspired flavors right to your kitchen, making healthy eating feel effortless and truly satisfying.
Print
Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Delight in this Creamy Keto Tuscan Cod featuring tender cod fillets cooked in a luscious sauce of heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. This low-carb, gluten-free Italian-inspired main course is perfect for a satisfying and healthy dinner, offering rich flavors with minimal prep time.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor and ensure a better sear.
- Sear the Cod: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cod fillets and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until they turn golden and are just cooked through. Remove the fillets and set them aside on a plate.
- Sauté Garlic and Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the sun-dried tomatoes and cherry tomatoes, cooking them for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Wilt the Spinach: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and cook until wilted, blending the flavors and softening the greens.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish with Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice to add brightness and balance to the creamy sauce.
- Combine and Warm: Return the cod fillets to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let everything warm through together for 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve the creamy keto Tuscan cod warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cod with halibut or another firm white fish for variation.
- For added richness and creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese into the sauce.
