Mediterranean Cod over Lemon Zucchini Cream with Crispy Chickpeas, Confit Tomatoes, and Green Olives

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 220°F / 105°C. Place the cherry tomatoes on a small tray with 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil, the honey, 1 whole garlic clove lightly crushed, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Roast for 25 minutes, until soft and juicy.

2. 2

   Increase the oven temperature to 425°F / 220°C. Meanwhile, dry the chickpeas very well with paper towels and toss them with 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil, ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp salt, and black pepper. Spread on a tray and roast for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and crisp.

3. 3

   While the chickpeas roast, heat 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook 30 seconds more. Add the zucchini, 2 tbsp (30 ml) water, a pinch of salt, and cook for 8 minutes, stirring, until the zucchini is tender.

4. 4

   Transfer the zucchini mixture to a blender or tall mixing cup. Add the Greek yogurt, lemon zest, 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice, and 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil, then blend until smooth. If needed, add the remaining water to adjust the texture. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper.

5. 5

   Pat the cod loins dry and season them with 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, the remaining dried oregano, 1/4 tsp salt, black pepper, and 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice.

6. 6

   Place the cod on a baking tray or ovenproof dish and roast at 400°F / 200°C for 10 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork and is just opaque in the center.

7. 7

   Mix the green olives with the chopped fresh parsley and the remaining 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice to create a bright, briny finishing garnish.

8. 8

   To serve, spread the warm zucchini cream onto plates. Set a cod loin on top, spoon over the confit tomatoes and their juices, scatter the crispy chickpeas around, and finish with the olive-parsley mixture. Serve immediately.