THE DELICATE FLAVORS OF COD shine when the fish is cooked in a light and flavorful broth. Served chilled, it is perfect for a warm summer evening. When the cod is served with a grain or plain steamed rice, the vinaigrette becomes the sauce.

　　

Ingredients

serves 4 to 6

　　2 pounds firm, white fish fillet, such as true cod (also known as Pacific cod), ling cod, halibut, or snapper, skinned and bones removed

　　Light Vinaigrette (recipe follows)

　　1 small fennel bulb, halved, cored, and thinly sliced

　　1 large beefsteak tomato, diced

　　2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil

　　

Light Vinaigrette

1/4 cup rice vinegar

　　2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

　　1 teaspoon kosher salt

　　1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

　　3/4 teaspoon dried basil

　　1 tablespoon plus 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar

　　1/2 cup neutral-flavored cooking oil, such as canola or soybean

　　(makes about 1 cup)

　　

Step 1

Carefully rinse and dry the fish. If you feel any bones when you run your fingers along the fillet, you may wish to remove them. Using needlenose pliers or strong tweezers, gently pull out the bones in the same direction they grew so as not to damage the fish.

　　

Step 2

Fill a large, shallow straight-sided pan or a roasting pan with 2 1/2 inches water. Bring the water to a simmer on high heat and then reduce the heat to medium. Add the fish and simmer gently until it just begins to flake when prodded with a knife, about 7 to 8 minutes for a 1-inch-thick fillet. (Remember: The fish will continue to cook after you remove it from the pan.) Transfer the fish carefully with a spatula to a large, shallow, nonreactive serving dish.

　　

Step 3

Pour the dressing over the poached fish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days.

　　

Step 4

To serve, arrange the fennel, tomato, and basil on top of the fish. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

　　

Light Vinaigrette

Step 5

Whisk together the vinegar, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, basil, sugar, and oil.

　　Pure Flavor