Spanish-Inspired Cod in Tomato Sauce with Peppers and Smoked Paprika
Make Spanish-inspired cod with peppers, olives and smoked paprika in a rich tomato sauce. An easy high-protein, lower-carb dinner ready in 32 minutes.
Spanish-Inspired Cod and Peppers with Smoked Paprika and Olives
Looking for a healthy, flavorful fish dinner that's easy to prepare? This Spanish-Inspired Cod and Peppers recipe combines tender white cod fillets, colorful bell peppers, rich tomato sauce, garlic, olives and smoky paprika for a delicious Mediterranean-style meal.
Ready in approximately 32 minutes, this simple one-pan cod recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
Each serving provides approximately 330 calories and 36g of protein, based on the provisional recipe nutrition estimates.
The cod gently simmers in a tomato and pepper sauce until tender and flaky, while smoked paprika adds warmth and depth. Olives bring a savory, slightly salty finish that complements the mild fish.
This dish is naturally rich in flavor without requiring a long list of ingredients. With just a few everyday ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, it's a convenient way to enjoy a protein-rich fish dinner.
Why you'll love this Spanish-inspired cod recipe
High in protein: Approximately 36g of protein per serving.
Full of Mediterranean-inspired flavor: Smoked paprika, garlic, tomato and olives create a delicious combination.
Lower in carbohydrates: Approximately 12g of carbohydrates per serving, based on the provisional estimates.
Easy one-pan cooking: The peppers, tomato sauce and cod cook together in one skillet.
Quick weeknight meal: Just 10 minutes of preparation and approximately 22 minutes of cooking.
Whether you're looking for an easy fish dinner, a lower-carbohydrate meal or a new way to enjoy cod, this Spanish-inspired recipe is a lovely addition to your weekly menu.
Tender fish, smoky tomato sauce and colorful peppers in every bite!
3. Ingredients
Serves 2 | 10 minutes preparation | 22 minutes cooking
You'll also need 60ml water for the tomato sauce.
Ingredient tip: Red and yellow bell peppers add sweetness and color. Use smoked paprika rather than regular paprika for the characteristic smoky flavor.
4. How to make Spanish-inspired cod and peppers
Step 1. Soften the peppers
Wash and slice the bell peppers into strips.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the peppers and cook for approximately 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Step 2. Make the smoky tomato sauce
Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika to the peppers. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to release their aroma.
Pour in the passata and 60ml water. Stir well and simmer gently for 5 minutes.
Step 3. Cook the cod
Place the cod fillets gently into the tomato and pepper sauce.
Cover the skillet and cook for approximately 8–10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For a reliable safety check, cook fish to an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F).
Add the olives near the end of cooking and allow them to warm through.
Serving tip: Divide the cod and sauce evenly between two plates. Spoon the peppers, olives and tomato sauce around the fish.
5. Calories and nutrition
Provisional nutrition per serving, based on 2 portions
6. Is Spanish cod and peppers good for fitness?
Cod is a lean source of protein, making this dish a useful option for people who want to include protein-rich meals in their eating plan.
With an estimated 36g of protein per serving, it can contribute to daily protein intake and support muscle maintenance and recovery as part of an overall balanced diet.
The peppers and tomato sauce add vegetables and flavor, while olive oil and olives contribute fats.
For a more substantial meal after demanding exercise, add potatoes or bread according to your energy needs.
7. Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
With an estimated 12g of carbohydrates per serving, this recipe can fit into many lower-carbohydrate eating patterns.
Whether it fits a ketogenic diet depends on your individual daily carbohydrate target and the exact ingredients used.
8. Higher-carbohydrate option
Serve with potatoes or bread for a more substantial meal.
These additions are not included in the stated calorie and nutrition estimates.
9. Storage and food safety
Allergen: Fish.
Cool the cooked fish and sauce and refrigerate within two hours.
Store in a covered container and use within 48 hours.
Reheat cooked portions only once, until steaming hot throughout. Handle the cod gently when reheating so it doesn't break apart.
