Cod with Asparagus

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PRESENTATION

In Northern Italy, cod recipes are all about embracing that fresh vibe of spring. When the season rolls in, locals go all out with dishes highlighting ingredients like baccalà and those early asparagus shoots. The region is known for taking salted cod, or baccalà, and giving it a seasonal spin. I mean, you might find it creamy on toast in Venice—baccalà mantecato—or baked with potatoes at Christmas. But, here's the thing, spring's got a lighter, brighter version. This recipe? It gets creative, using asparagus in two super tasty ways: first, tender and braised, then blended into a smooth, creamy sauce to complement the fish.

A squeeze of lemon really really wakes up the cod’s flavor, and a dash of ginger on the asparagus adds a fresh twist. Honestly, it's like the essence of the new season on your plate. What's really special about this baked cod with asparagus is how it morphs from a simple, rustic dish to a refined spring favorite. And you know what? People in Northern Italy love experimenting with their asparagus recipes, always adapting to what's fresh at the market.

This dish layers flavors and textures beautifully. You get the slightly crispy exterior of the cod, its soft, moist interior, and the asparagus showing off both its tender and crisp qualities. While many healthy cod recipes just toss fish and veggies together, this one stands out by doubling the asparagus and throwing in lemon and ginger to keep things light. For real, it’s a refreshing break from the heavier baccalà dishes of winter, making it a top pick for anyone craving a simple yet elegant dinner.

Plus, this dish is a hidden gem among Italian easy cod recipes. Perfect for those seeking a seafood and veggie combo that feels special without being complicated. No need to save this for a holiday—this is the kind of spring meal that makes you look forward to longer days and fresh flavors, offering a taste of the beautiful Italian countryside right at home. Super super good, no question.

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INGREDIENTS
Desalted cod 1.1 lbs (500 g)
Asparagus 1.1 lbs (500 g) - to clean
Water ½ cup (120 g)
Garlic 2 cloves
Chives to taste
Fresh ginger 0.7 oz (20 g)
Lemon juice 1
White wine 0.42 cup (100 g)
Extra virgin olive oil to taste
Fine salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Preparation

How to prepare Cod with Asparagus

To prepare the cod with asparagus, first wash the asparagus, then cut off the white, tougher part 1. Take half of the asparagus and cut them into coarse pieces 2. Peel the ginger and slice it thinly 3.

In a pan, pour the olive oil 4, heat it, then add the asparagus pieces 5, the sliced ginger 6,

then salt 7 and pepper. Sauté for a couple of minutes and then cover with 1/2 cup of water 8. Cook over low heat for about 10 minutes 9.

Transfer the asparagus to a tall glass 10 and blend with an immersion blender 11 to obtain a smooth cream 12. Set aside and take care of the cod.

Take the pre-soaked and deboned cod and cut it into coarse pieces 13. In a pan, heat the oil with two cloves of garlic in their skins 14 15.

Sauté for a few minutes and then deglaze first with lemon juice 16 and then with wine 17. Let it evaporate, then season with salt and pepper, and continue cooking for 20 minutes over medium heat. Meanwhile, take the other half of the asparagus set aside, peel the stalks with a vegetable peeler 18.

Cut thin strips of asparagus by slicing them lengthwise 19. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pan 20 and then braise the asparagus here for 3-4 minutes until golden 21.

Meanwhile, the cod will be cooked 22, remove the flesh in coarse pieces and place it in a bowl 23. Season with olive oil 34,

chopped chives 25 and pepper, then mix to season. Everything is ready to serve: place the cod in the center of a plate, along with the sautéed asparagus and creamy asparagus 26. Garnish with pieces of chives and serve immediately 27.

Storage

Store the cod with asparagus in the fridge and consume within 2 days. The cream can be frozen.

Advice

Enjoy the cod with asparagus served on toasted bread: spread the cream on the base, lay the cod flesh, and finish by garnishing with the braised asparagus strips.

For the translation of some texts, artificial intelligence tools may have been used.