Mediterranean Baked Fish is like a vacation for your taste buds imagine flaky fish swimming in a sea of vibrant tomatoes, olives, and herbs. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, teasing you with hints of garlic and lemon that promise a flavor explosion.
I remember the first time I made this dish it was a rainy day, and I wanted to bring a little sunshine into my home. I had friends over who claimed they weren’t fans of fish. By the end of the meal, they were asking for seconds! Perfect for dinner parties or cozy family nights, this dish will make you feel like you’re dining at a seaside taverna.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mediterranean Baked Fish is simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor
- The bright colors and aromas create an inviting atmosphere at any gathering
- Versatile enough to enjoy with various sides or salads
- It’s an impressive dish that won’t break the bank or your schedule!
Sharing this dish at family gatherings always brings smiles and compliments from everyone around the table.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh White Fish (like Cod or Halibut): Look for firm fillets that glisten; freshness is key to great flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy; they add color and depth when roasted.
- Black Olives: Choose Kalamata for their bold flavor; pitted olives save time.
- Fresh Herbs (like Parsley and Basil): Use vibrant herbs to enhance freshness; never underestimate their impact!
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens the dish; bottled lemon juice just won’t cut it.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates everything; don’t skimp on these little flavor bombs!
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it adds richness without overpowering.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all those delightful flavors; don’t forget to taste!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and lightly drizzle it with olive oil to prevent sticking. This step ensures you end up with perfectly cooked fish instead of a sticky disaster on your hands.
Prepare your fish fillets by patting them dry with paper towels—this helps create that lovely golden crust as they bake. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
In a large bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, pitted black olives, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, and a splash of lemon juice. Mix them together until well coated—this colorful medley will be your flavorful topping!
Arrange your seasoned fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pour the vibrant tomato mixture over each fillet ensuring they’re well-covered—think of it as giving them a warm sun-kissed blanket.
Drizzle more olive oil over the top; it adds richness while keeping everything moist during baking. Pop that beauty into your preheated oven; let it bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
While waiting impatiently (because who doesn’t love smelling delicious food?), set the table or whip up some quick sides—like crusty bread or a light salad—to complete your meal!
Once cooked to perfection, serve your Mediterranean Baked Fish hot from the oven garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as you dig in—enjoy every flaky bite!
You Must Know
- This Mediterranean Baked Fish is not just a dish; it’s a symphony of flavors!
- With zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and flaky fish, it dazzles the senses
- Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare your fish with olive oil, herbs, and spices. Bake for about 20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the fish for your favorite kind or add seasonal vegetables. A sprinkle of feta cheese can elevate the flavor while making it extra delightful.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve its tender texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For vibrant flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley and dill
- Avoid overcooking by checking doneness five minutes before the recommended time
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal that feels gourmet without fuss
My first attempt at this Mediterranean Baked Fish was met with rave reviews from my friends who couldn’t believe how delicious yet simple it was to make!
FAQ
What type of fish is best for Mediterranean Baked Fish?
White fish like cod or tilapia works wonderfully due to its mild flavor and flakiness.
Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?
Yes! Just ensure it’s thoroughly thawed before seasoning and baking.
What sides pair well with Mediterranean Baked Fish?
Consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a refreshing Greek salad for a balanced meal.
START OF TASTYYYYYYYYYYYY CARDDD
Mediterranean Baked Fish is a vibrant dish that combines flaky fish with roasted tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs for a healthy and flavorful meal. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quick weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients:
– Fresh white fish (like cod or halibut)
– Cherry tomatoes
– Black olives (preferably Kalamata)
– Fresh herbs (parsley and basil)
– Lemon juice
– Garlic cloves
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
Preparation Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and drizzle olive oil in a baking dish.
2. Pat fish fillets dry, season with salt and pepper, and place in the baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and lemon juice. Pour over the fish.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Helpful Notes:
– Feel free to substitute your favorite fish or add seasonal vegetables.
– A sprinkle of feta cheese enhances flavor beautifully.
– Serve with roasted vegetables or a Greek salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information per Serving (1 fillet with topping):
– Calories: 310
– Sugar: 3g
– Sodium: 540mg
– Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
– Carbohydrates: 10g
– Fiber: 2g
– Protein: 30g
– Cholesterol: 75mg
Preparation Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
END OF TASTYYYYYYYY CARDDDDDDDDDD
Mediterranean Baked Fish
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mediterranean Baked Fish is a vibrant dish that combines flaky fish with roasted tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs for a healthy and flavorful meal. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- Fresh white fish (like cod or halibut)
- Cherry tomatoes
- Black olives (preferably Kalamata)
- Fresh herbs (parsley and basil)
- Lemon juice
- Garlic cloves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and drizzle olive oil in a baking dish.
- Pat fish fillets dry, season with salt and pepper, and arrange them in the baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, minced garlic, chopped herbs, and lemon juice; mix well. Pour this mixture over the fish.
- Drizzle additional olive oil on top and bake for 20-25 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (170g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
