This easy Mediterranean baked fish is a winner for dinner! It’s made with fresh fish, tomatoes, olives, and herbs, giving it a bright and tasty flavor you’ll love.
Honestly, it’s so simple to whip up, and the aroma while it cooks is just heavenly. I can never resist pairing it with some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish Fillets: Tilapia, cod, or sea bass work great here. If you have another type of firm fish like trout or snapper, it can still be delicious. Just make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bring sweetness and acidity. If you can’t find them, use regular tomatoes, chopped. You might want to cook a bit longer to soften them up. I also enjoy using sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste!
Green Olives: Pitted green olives add a nice briny flavor. If you prefer, black olives or Kalamata olives can be substituted. They’ll change the dish’s flavor profile slightly but will still work nicely.
Dried Herbs: The oregano and thyme give Mediterranean flavor. Feel free to switch things up by adding dried basil or even Italian seasoning if you have it. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after baking also brighten the dish!
How Do I Make Sure My Fish Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting your fish just right is key! It should be flaky and opaque when done. Here are my tips:
- Start by prepping your ingredients. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother.
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for an even bake. If the fish fillets are thick, you might add a minute or two to the cooking time.
- Keep an eye on the fish around the 15-minute mark. It’s better to check it early, especially if the fillets are thinner.
- Use a fork to test for doneness. Gently pull it apart; it should flake easily.
Following these tips will help you serve up perfectly baked fish every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 white fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or sea bass), about 6 oz each
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 18 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying this delightful dish in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, let’s get your oven ready! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your fish.
2. Prepare the Vegetable Mix:
In a baking dish or oven-safe skillet, add the cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, and minced garlic. Drizzle in the olive oil, and sprinkle with oregano, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon to gently toss everything together, making sure the tomatoes and olives are well-coated.
3. Add the Fish:
Now, it’s time to place your fish fillets right on top of the tomato and olive mixture. Drizzle the fresh lemon juice over the top to add a zesty touch, and don’t forget about that delicious rosemary sprig—lay it alongside the fish for extra flavor!
4. Bake:
Carefully put your skillet or baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily and the tomatoes look bursting and a bit caramelized.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, remove the rosemary sprig (it’s done its job!), and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve your Mediterranean baked fish hot and enjoy it alongside some crusty bread, couscous, or rice for a complete meal.
This Mediterranean baked fish is not only vibrant and tasty but also healthy and quick to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner! Enjoy!
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 thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing them in the fridge overnight or running them under cold water in a sealed bag for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning and baking.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use another oil like avocado or canola oil. Both will work well, but olive oil adds a lovely Mediterranean flavor that complements the dish beautifully!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or in the microwave until heated through, being careful not to overcook the fish.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra color and nutrition. Just chop them into similar sizes as the tomatoes and olives so they cook evenly.
