Harissa Cod with Creamy White Beans

Picture this: It’s 7 PM, your stomach’s growling like a bear, and you want something actually good – not just another sad sandwich. Enter this Harissa Cod with Creamy White Beans. It’s fast, fancy-ish, and packed with flavor that’ll make you feel like a kitchen rockstar (without the stress). I make this at least once a week, and trust me – you’ll wanna steal this move too.

Try my Herbed COD and Lentil Stew recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Harissa Cod (& Be Obsessed Immediately)

✅ Restaurant vibes, couch pants energy: Feels fancy, but takes less effort than deciding what to watch on Netflix.

✅ 25 minutes = dinner magic: Faster than delivery, and you don’t have to tip your microwave.

✅ Spicy, creamy, crunchy, herby: Every bite’s got drama (the good kind).

✅ Pantry MVP: Uses stuff you probably have (or can grab without a treasure hunt).

✅ High-protein hero: Keeps you full longer than that sad desk salad ever could.

✅ Leftovers? LOL: (Spoiler: There won’t be any.)

Basically: It’s the “I’ve got my life together” dinner – with zero pretentiousness. 🔥

Try my Pan-Fried COD in Basil Lemon Butter Sauce recipe.

What You’ll Need To Make

Let’s Talk Key Ingredients (Because They’re Kind of a Big Deal)

Harissa Paste: This spicy, smoky North African condiment is the flavor MVP here. It turns basic cod into a “wait, did I just cook this?!” moment. No harissa? Mix tomato paste + smoked paprika + a dash of cayenne for a quick fix.

Cod Fillets: Mild, flaky, and cooks in 12 minutes flat. Frozen works too – just thaw it in cold water while you prep the rest. Pro tip: Pat it dry first for maximum crusty goodness.

Cannellini Beans: Creamy, dreamy, and packed with protein. The can liquid? Gold. It thickens the sauce naturally (no flour needed). Chickpeas or butter beans work in a pinch.

Parmesan: Because everything’s better with cheese. It melts into the beans like a cozy blanket.

Lemon Juice: The bright sidekick that cuts through the richness. Bottled works, but fresh makes it sing. (Save a slice for your water – hydration is cool.)

Why This Combo Rocks: You get spicy, creamy, crunchy, and zesty in one bite – without a single “weird” ingredient. Even your “I don’t cook” friends will feel like pros. 🎉

NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.

What You’ll Need To Do

Serves: 2 hungry people
Time: 25 minutes (because who wants to wait?)

Step 1: Spice Up That Cod!

• Crank your oven to 390°F (200°C)– let’s get it toasty.
• In a bowl, mix harissa paste, a glug of olive oil, and breadcrumbs into a spicy, crumbly paste. Slather this goodness all over your cod fillets like you’re frosting a cake (but way more delicious).
• Pop them in the oven for 12-15 minutes – just until the fish flakes like it’s got zero worries in life.

Step 2: Creamy Bean Magic

• While the cod does its thing, grab a pot and toss in the cannellini beans (liquid included!), garlic clove, milk, and a splash of water. Let it bubble away on medium heat for 10-15 minutes until it’s thick and dreamy.
• Fish out the garlic (its job is done) and stir in the chopped parsley, Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Salt and pepper? Yes, please – make it taste like chef’s kiss.

Step 3: Plate It Like You Mean It

• Spoon that creamy bean goodness onto plates and top with your harissa-crusted cod. Want extra flair? Sprinkle on chili flakes, more Parmesan, or a handful of fresh parsley.

Glycemic Index: 30-35 (Low) Glycemic Load: 10-12 (Low)

Easy Ingredient Swaps

🐟 For the Cod:

Salmon – Rich and fatty, holds up great to the harissa crust.

Haddock or Halibut – Similar mild, flaky texture.

Shrimp or Scallops – Cooks even faster! (Adjust baking time to 5-8 mins.)

Chicken Breast – Not seafood, but still killer with harissa. Bake at 375°F until 165°F internal temp.

🌶️ For the Harissa Paste:

Sriracha + Smoked Paprika – Close-ish in heat and smokiness.

Tomato Paste + Cumin + Chili Flakes – Budget-friendly hack.

Gochujang – Korean twist, sweeter but still spicy.

🥫 For the Cannellini Beans:

Great Northern Beans – Nearly identical, just slightly firmer.

Chickpeas (Garbanzos) – Heartier texture, still creamy.

Lentils – For a lighter vibe (cook separately first).

🧀 For the Parmesan:

Pecorino Romano – Saltier, tangier cousin.

Feta – Crumbles beautifully for a briny kick.

Nutritional Yeast – Dairy free cheesy vibes.

🥛 For the Whole Milk:

Half-and-Half or Cream – Extra luscious beans.

Oat Milk or Coconut Milk – Dairy-free but still creamy.

🌿 For the Parsley:

Cilantro – If you’re team “cilantro doesn’t taste like soap.”

Basil or Chives – Fresh, herby, and just as pretty.

Why Swap?

• Allergies? Covered.
• Pantry empty? Improvise.
• Bored? Shake it up.

No rules, just good food. 😎

Try my COD and Creamy Zoodles recipe.

Fun Recipe Tweaks (Make It Your Own!)

🔥 Spice It Up

Extra Heat: Double the chili flakes or add diced jalapeños to the beans.

Smoky Twist: Stir a pinch of smoked paprika into the harissa paste.

Sweet Balance: Drizzle honey over the cod before baking for spicy-sweet vibes.

🌿 Herb & Citrus Boost

Lemon Zest: Grate some into the beans for extra brightness.

Fresh Dill: Swap parsley for dill – especially good with salmon.

Orange Juice: Replace half the lemon juice for a sweeter citrus kick.

🥘 Texture Play

Crispy Topping: Mix panko into the breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Creamier Beans: Mash half the beans before simmering.

Charred Finish: Broil the cod 1-2 mins at the end for a crispy top.

🍽️ Make It Heartier

Greens: Stir baby spinach or kale into the beans at the end.

Grains: Serve over couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread.

Bacon Bits: Sprinkle cooked bacon on top (because bacon).

🌱 Lighter Options

Less Oil: Use cooking spray instead of olive oil for the crust.

Greek Yogurt: Swirl into beans instead of milk for tangy creaminess.

Zoodles: Swap beans for zucchini noodles (but keep the sauce!).

🍴 Presentation Wins

Sauce Drizzle: Mix harissa with yogurt for a pretty swirl.

Color Pop: Top with pomegranate seeds or cherry tomatoes.

Fresh Cracked Pepper: Always Instagram-worthy.

Tweak Rule: Taste as you go – your kitchen, your rules! 😉

Pro Tips for Perfect Harissa Cod & White Beans

🐟 For the Cod:

Pat it dry – Remove excess moisture for a crispier crust.

Skin-on? Sear skin-side down in a pan first for extra texture, then bake.

Even coating – Use the back of a spoon to spread harissa paste smoothly.

🥫 For the Beans:

Don’t drain the can! The starchy liquid thickens the sauce naturally.

Low & slow – Simmer gently to prevent curdling the milk.

Mash a few beans – Creates a creamier texture without extra ingredients.

🌶️ Flavor Boosters:

Bloom the spices – Toast chili flakes in oil before mixing with harissa.

Garlic options – Minced garlic (instead of whole) = stronger flavor.

Zest first – Grate lemon zest before juicing for maximum citrus punch.

⏱️ Time-Savers:

Prep ahead – Mix harissa paste & breadcrumbs in advance.

Frozen fish hack – Thaw cod quickly in a bowl of cold water (change water every 10 mins).

One-pan beans – Use an ovenproof skillet to bake cod directly on top of beans.

🔥 Cooking Adjustments:

No oven? Pan-sear cod harissa-side down first, then flip to finish.

Broiler finish – 1-2 minutes at the end for extra browning.

Check doneness – Cod should reach 145°F and flake easily.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Warm plates – Prevents the dish from cooling too fast.
• Bread bonus – Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Garnish generously – Fresh herbs and extra chili flakes add visual pop.

Bonus Tip: If the beans get too thick, stir in a splash of hot water or broth to loosen.

Remember: Recipes are guidelines… tweak to YOUR taste! 😊

Try my Light and Healthy Steamed Cod and Vegetables recipe.

Budget-Friendly Tips

🐟 Fish Savings:

• Use frozen cod: Often 30-50% cheaper than fresh, with the same quality when thawed properly.
• Swap for pollock or tilapia: More affordable white fish with similar texture.
• Buy in bulk: Flash-freeze individual portions for future meals.

🥫 Bean & Pantry Stretchers:

• Dried beans: Cook from scratch (1/3 the cost of canned). Soak overnight or use the quick-soak method.
• Substitute navy or great northern beans: Usually cheaper than cannellini.
• Use water + butter: Instead of milk for the beans (still creamy!).

🌶️ Spice Savings:

• Make DIY harissa: Mix tomato paste + 1 tsp each smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder.
• Skip Parmesan: Or use a small amount of cheaper pecorino romano for bold flavor.
• Grow your own herbs: A $3 parsley plant yields months of fresh garnishes.

🍋 Smart Shortcuts:

• Bulk breadcrumbs: Make your own from stale bread (freeze extras).
• Bottled lemon juice: Works in a pinch (though fresh is ideal).
• Garlic powder: When fresh garlic isn’t on sale (use ¼ tsp per clove).

♻️ Waste-Not Tricks:

• Save veggie scraps: Freeze for homemade broth to use in the beans later.
• Repurpose leftovers: Flake extra cod into tacos or bean soup the next day.
• Use all the lemon: Zest before juicing, then freeze zest for future recipes.

Bonus: Check the “manager’s special” section at your grocery store for discounted fish and dairy nearing its sell-by date (perfect for immediate cooking).

Eating well doesn’t have to break the bank! 💰😋

Serving Ideas to Make This Dish Shine

🍽️ Simple & Classic:

Crusty bread or garlic toast: Perfect for soaking up the creamy bean sauce.

Light green salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Steamed veggies: Like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli for a fresh crunch.

🌾 Hearty & Wholesome:

Over couscous, quinoa, or rice: Stretches the meal and adds texture.

With roasted potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside.

Warm pita or naan: Great for scooping up beans and fish.

🥗 Lighter & Low-Carb:

Zucchini noodles (zoodles): A veggie-packed base.

Over arugula or spinach: Turns it into a warm salad.

With roasted cauliflower: Adds a nutty, caramelized touch.

🍻 For a Cozy Night In:

With a glass of crisp white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio): Cuts through the spice.

A side of roasted cherry tomatoes: Bursting with sweet acidity.

Crusty baguette + whipped feta dip: Because extra carbs are always welcome.

🌮 Leftover Remix (If You Have Any!):

Flake into tacos: Add slaw, avocado, and lime crema.

Top a grain bowl: With greens, pickled onions, and tahini drizzle.

Mix into pasta: Toss with spaghetti, olive oil, and extra chili flakes.

Pro Tip: Garnish with extra fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a restaurant-worthy finish.

However you serve it, this dish is a flavor win! 🎉

Try my Baked Cod With Spinach and Crispy Top recipe.

Perfect Drink Pairings for Harissa Cod & White Beans

🍷 Alcoholic Options:

Crisp White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Albariño (cuts through the spice).

Light Beer: Pilsner, wheat beer, or a citrusy IPA (refreshes the palate).

Rosé: Dry rosé balances the dish’s richness and heat.

Sparkling Wine/Prosecco: Bubbles + spice = a fun contrast.

🍹 Non-Alcoholic Options:

Sparkling Lemonade or Limeade: Zesty and refreshing.

Iced Mint Green Tea: Cooling and aromatic.

Ginger Beer (non-alcoholic): Spicy-sweet kick that complements harissa.

Cucumber-Mint Cooler: Ultra-refreshing with a subtle herbal note.

☕ Cozy Sips (For Cooler Nights):

Herbal Tea: Chamomile or lemongrass for a soothing finish.

Turmeric-Ginger Latte : Warm and anti-inflammatory.

Pro Tip: If serving wine, chill it slightly colder than usual – the spice will warm it up!

Sip, savor, and enjoy the flavors! 🍽️✨

Storage & Reheating Tips

❄️ Storing Leftovers:

Fridge (3-4 days):

• Store cod and beans separately in airtight containers to prevent sogginess.

• Let cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezer (Up to 1 month):

• Freeze cod without the breadcrumb topping (it gets mushy).

• Beans freeze well… thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

🔥 Reheating for Best Results:

Oven (Best for cod):

• Place cod on a baking sheet at 300°F (150°C) for 10-12 mins (cover loosely with foil to retain moisture).

Stovetop (Best for beans):

• Warm beans in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a splash of water or milk to loosen.

Microwave (Quick fix):

• Heat cod at 50% power in 30-second bursts to avoid rubberiness.

Stir beans halfway through reheating.

⚠️ Pro Tips:

Revive the crust: Broil reheated cod for 1-2 mins to crisp the topping.

Avoid overcooking: Fish dries out fast… reheat just until warm.

Refresh flavors: Add a squeeze of lemon or sprinkle of fresh herbs after reheating.

Note: The beans may thicken when chilled… just stir in broth or water when reheating!

No one likes sad leftovers – keep ‘em tasty! 😉

Try my Spiced Mediterranean Fish Soup recipe.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – dinner that’s quicker than your takeout app and tastes ten times better. If you’re into crispy-spicy fish, creamy beans, and looking like you’ve got your life together (even if you don’t), this one’s your new MVP. Give it a shot, tweak it your way, and hey – if you burn the breadcrumbs the first time? No judgment. I’ve been there. Now go eat! 🍴🔥

(P.S. Leftovers? Ha. Good joke.)

Recipe Card