Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa

Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa is a delightful dish that combines crispy coconut crusted cod with a bright and refreshing pineapple salsa. This recipe is perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The unique combination of flavors will impress your guests, making it a standout choice in your seafood repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful: The coconut crust adds a delightful crunch while the cod remains tender and flaky.
• Refreshing Salsa: The pineapple salsa brings a burst of sweetness and tang, perfectly complementing the fish.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish is accessible even for beginner cooks.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings; it’s versatile enough for any event.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and tropical flavors, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Nonstick sauté pan
• Medium saucepan
• Large plate
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls

Why These Tools Matter

• Nonstick sauté pan: Ensures easy flipping of the cod without sticking, providing an even cook on each side.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking rice efficiently while keeping it fluffy and tender.
• Baking sheet: Used to finish cooking the cod in the oven, ensuring it’s perfectly flaky when served.

Ingredients

Light and crispy coconut crusted cod, topped with a lovely pineapple salsa and served over coconut rice.

For the Rice

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 5.46 oz can coconut milk
• kosher salt
• fresh cracked pepper

For the Cod

• 1 to 1-1/4 lb fresh cod (cut into 4 portions)
• Old Bay seasoning
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut
• 2 Tbs extra virgin olive oil
• 2 Tbs unsalted butter

For the Pineapple Salsa

• 1 20 oz can pineapple tidbits, drained
• 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced)
• 1/2 large red bell pepper (seeded, ribs removed, and diced)
• 1-2 serrano peppers (seeded, ribs removed, and very finely diced)
• juice of 1/2 lime
• zest of 1/2 lime
• 1 Tbs orange juice
• 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
• pinch kosher salt
• pinch fresh cracked pepper

How to Make Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot enough to finish cooking the cod perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, combine enough water with the coconut milk to make a total of 2 cups liquid.
2. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat.
3. Once boiling, add the basmati rice. Stir well.
4. Cover the pan and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15-18 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Pineapple Salsa

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for the salsa:
– Drained pineapple tidbits
– Finely diced red onion
– Diced red bell pepper
– Finely diced serrano peppers
– Juice and zest of lime
– Orange juice
– Extra virgin olive oil
– A pinch of kosher salt
– A pinch of fresh cracked pepper

Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 4: Prepare the Cod for Cooking

1. Season each piece of cod with kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg with one tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
3. On a large plate, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.

Step 5: Cook the Cod

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a nonstick sauté pan over medium-high heat until bubbling.
2. Dip each piece of seasoned cod into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off.
3. Roll each piece in the panko-coconut mixture until fully coated.
4. Carefully place cod pieces in the hot pan. Cook until golden brown on one side (about 3-4 minutes), then flip and repeat on the other side.
5. Transfer cooked pieces onto a baking sheet sprayed lightly with cooking spray.

Step 6: Finish Cooking in Oven

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven for an additional 4-5 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork. If your fish is thinner than an inch thick, you may skip this step as it will finish cooking on stovetop.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your delicious coconut cod over a bed of fluffy coconut rice topped generously with refreshing pineapple salsa.

Enjoy this Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa—it’s sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa

Serving Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa is a delightful experience. The crispy texture of the cod combined with the vibrant flavors of the salsa creates a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious. Here are some creative ways to present this dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the coconut cod on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh and colorful presentation. This adds crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

With Avocado Slices

• Add slices of creamy avocado on the side. The richness of the avocado complements the tropical notes in the pineapple salsa beautifully.

Tacos Style

• Use warm corn tortillas to wrap pieces of coconut cod topped with pineapple salsa. This makes for a fun, handheld meal that everyone will enjoy.

Over Quinoa

• Swap out rice for fluffy quinoa. This protein-packed grain provides a nutty flavor that pairs well with the fish and salsa.

Garnished with Cilantro

• Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top just before serving. This adds a burst of freshness that enhances the overall taste.

How to Perfect Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa

Perfecting your Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Fish: Always choose fresh cod from your local market for the best flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your pineapple salsa before serving and adjust salt or lime juice as needed for balance.
• Preheat Properly: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the cod; this helps achieve that perfect crispy crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the cod in batches if necessary to avoid steaming, which can make it soggy.
• Let it Rest: Allow the cooked cod to rest for a couple of minutes before serving, enhancing its juiciness.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to try different spices in your coating for unique flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa

Pairing side dishes with Coconut Cod enhances your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Coconut Rice: A perfect match, this dish mirrors the coconut flavors in your main course while providing a fluffy base.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the meal’s flavors.
3. Mango Salad: A refreshing mango salad brings sweetness and crunch that complements both the fish and salsa.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Charred asparagus offers a smoky contrast that pairs well with tropical elements.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness and crunch, making them an excellent side.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crispness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the cod.
7. Roasted Cauliflower: This nutty-tasting vegetable becomes caramelized when roasted, adding depth to your meal.
8. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve spiralized zucchini sautéed lightly in olive oil as a low-carb alternative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to adequately season the cod can result in bland flavors. Always season generously with salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can compromise the taste of your pineapple salsa. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy and unappetizing. Follow the cooking time carefully and fluff with a fork once done.
• Inconsistent coating on the cod: If you don’t coat the cod evenly with panko and coconut, it may not achieve that delightful crispy texture. Be sure to press down firmly while coating.
• Forgetting to chill the salsa: Not chilling the salsa before serving can affect its freshness. Allow it to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 2-3 days for best quality.

Freezing Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa

• Place cooled cod in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place cod on a baking sheet and reheat until warm throughout (about 10-15 minutes).
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm the cod gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa healthier?

You can use less oil when frying or bake the coated cod instead of frying. This will reduce fat content while still giving you a delicious meal.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper texture.

What can I serve with Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance flavors and textures.

How long does it take to prepare Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa?

The total time is about 40 minutes, including prep time and cooking time.

Is Coconut Cod suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a great option for meal prep throughout the week.

Conclusion

Coconut Cod with Pineapple Salsa is not only light and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different fruits to your salsa or experimenting with various spices on your cod. Give this delightful dish a try—it’s perfect for any occasion!