This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish is fresh and packed with flavor! You’ll enjoy tender fish topped with vibrant tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s super quick to make and great for dinner!
I love how this dish makes my kitchen smell heavenly—like a little slice of the Mediterranean! Serve it with some crusty bread, and you have a perfect meal that’s easy and tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish: Cod, haddock, or tilapia are great choices. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can also use salmon or snapper. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and rich flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, avocado oil works well too. Just try to choose a good quality oil for the best taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: They’re sweet and juicy. If you can’t find them, diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes can fit nicely. Just adjust the quantity based on preference!
Kalamata Olives: These offer a briny taste that complements the dish. If you don’t have Kalamata, use green olives or black olives as a substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Fish is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting perfectly cooked fish is key to this dish. Follow these tips for success:
- Check the thickness. Thicker fillets will need extra cooking time, so that’s something to consider.
- Timing is essential: Bake the fish for 15-20 minutes. It should be opaque and flake easily. Keep an eye on it!
- Use a fork or knife to gently poke at the thickest part of the fillet for doneness.
Trust your instincts! If it looks good and smells amazing, you’re probably right on track.
Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Fish:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia; about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to bake. Overall, you can have a lovely Mediterranean dish ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that warms up, lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Fish:
Now, place your fish fillets in the greased baking dish. Drizzle the remaining olive oil evenly over the fish. Season each fillet generously with salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. This is where all the good flavor starts!
3. Add the Veggies:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, minced garlic, and thinly sliced red onion evenly over and around the fish. This will create a colorful and aromatic topping.
4. Lemon Time:
Next, arrange the lemon slices on top of the fish fillets. This will bring a nice zesty flavor and aroma to the dish.
5. Spice It Up (Optional):
If you like a little heat, sprinkle the red pepper flakes over everything for that extra kick!
6. Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. This adds a nice pop of green and freshness!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mediterranean baked fish warm with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the delightful flavors!
This dish is not only easy to make but also brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Can I Use Frozen Fish Fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and a good texture.
What Can I Substitute for Kalamata Olives?
If you don’t have Kalamata olives, green olives or black olives work as great alternatives. Just choose the type you prefer; each will add its unique flavor to the dish!
How Should I 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. This helps retain the best texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other Mediterranean vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or artichokes. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
