Description
Mediterranean baked cod is a light, flavorful dinner showcasing flaky cod fillets baked with cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, lemon, fresh herbs, and extra-virgin olive oil. This easy one-dish meal bursts with bright Mediterranean flavors, making it a healthy and satisfying option for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Fish and Marinade
- 4 cod fillets, about 5–6 ounces each
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the cod fillets: Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Season the fish: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the cod fillets, then generously season with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Add vegetables and lemon: Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, and lemon slices both around and on top of the fish fillets to add vibrant flavor and color.
- Drizzle remaining liquids: Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the fresh lemon juice evenly over the entire dish to infuse brightness and moisture.
- Top with garlic: Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly across the dish ensuring every bite has a bit of garlicky goodness.
- Bake the cod: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 12–16 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, until the cod flakes easily when tested with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and basil over the top. Optionally, add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy finish. Serve immediately with the roasted tomatoes, olives, and flavorful pan juices.
Notes
- Substitute cod with other firm white fish such as haddock or halibut.
- Be careful not to overbake the fish; it should remain moist and flake easily with a fork.
- For extra vegetables, add sliced bell peppers or zucchini before baking.
- Pairs well with couscous, rice, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread to complete the meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, Seafood, Healthy Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
