This easy Mediterranean baked fish recipe is bright and tasty! You use fresh fish fillets and mix them with tomatoes, olives, and herbs. It’s a dish that feels special yet is super simple to make.
I love how the flavors blend so well together. Plus, it’s light and healthy—great for any day of the week. Serve it with some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a delicious meal!
Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish Fillets: Cod, haddock, or tilapia work well here. If you can’t find these, salmon or snapper can be great alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary with thicker fish.
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add sweetness and juiciness. If you can’t find them, grape tomatoes or even canned diced tomatoes can work, just adjust cooking time if using canned tomatoes.
Kalamata and Green Olives: These bring a nice briny flavor. If you prefer, you can use other olives like black olives or omit them altogether if you’re not a fan. Just remember, they add a unique taste!
Red Onion: This adds crunch and a mild sweetness. If you want something less sharp, shallots are a good substitute; or, for a milder option, you can use green onions.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides richness. You can substitute half the amount with a lighter oil if you like, but the flavor will be less pronounced.
How Do I Ensure My Fish Cooks Perfectly?
Cooking fish can be tricky, but getting it right is easy with a few tips! First, make sure your oven is preheated so your fish starts cooking evenly. Place the fillets in a single layer for even heat distribution.
- Check the fish at the 20-minute mark. It should flake easily with a fork but still be moist.
- If it’s browning too much, you can cover it loosely with foil.
- Let it sit for a couple of minutes after baking, as it helps the flavors settle.
Following these steps will help you enjoy perfectly cooked fish every time! Happy cooking!
Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia), about 6 oz each
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup green olives, sliced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making for a total time of roughly 35-40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy option for a healthy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your fish cooks evenly. While it heats up, you can prepare the ingredients.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil. This will help prevent the fish from sticking.
3. Season the Fish:
Place the fish fillets in the baking dish in a single layer. Lightly season them with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and thyme. This will add wonderful flavor to the fish.
4. Mix the Vegetables:
In a bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, green olives, chopped red onion, minced garlic, and olive oil. Mix everything well so that the veggies are nicely coated with olive oil.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Spoon the tomato and olive mixture evenly over the fish fillets, making sure to spread it gently so it covers the whole fillet.
6. Add Lemon Juice:
Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the fish and the vegetable mixture for an extra burst of flavor!
7. Bake the Fish:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the fish will be done when it flakes easily with a fork and the tomatoes have softened beautifully.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, feel free to garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill if you like. Serve it right away, ideally with some crusty bread or a side of rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your flavorful, light, and healthy Mediterranean baked fish!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Can I Use Frozen Fish for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they bake well.
What Can I Substitute for Olives if I Don’t Like Them?
If olives aren’t your thing, you can simply skip them! Alternatively, you can use capers for a similar briny flavor or swap in some diced bell peppers or artichokes for added veggies.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to overheat the fish.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other Mediterranean-inspired vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking!
