This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish is a bright and tasty dish packed with fresh flavors. With ingredients like olives, tomatoes, and herbs, it’s a colorful feast for your eyes and tummy!
It’s so simple to make! Just pop everything on a baking tray and let the oven do the magic. I love serving this with some crusty bread. Trust me, you’ll want to soak up all those delicious juices!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish Fillets: Cod, haddock, and tilapia are great choices. If you’re in the mood for something different, you can use salmon or halibut. Just note that cooking times may vary with thicker fish.
Cherry Tomatoes: These bring sweetness to the dish. If you can’t find them, use diced regular tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Green Olives: The olives add a briny punch. If you prefer, you can substitute with black olives, capers, or even leave them out for a milder taste.
Olive Oil: While extra virgin olive oil is best for flavor, regular olive oil works too. For a different taste, you can use avocado oil or even a splash of infused oil like garlic or chili.
Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add depth. Don’t have fresh herbs? Dried versions will work; just use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated. If you’re out of oregano, try basil or Italian seasoning instead.
How Do I Make Sure My Fish is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking fish can be tricky, but this method makes it simple. The key is to keep an eye on the fish while it bakes. Here’s how to do it:
- Set your oven to the right temperature, around 400°F (200°C).
- When baking, fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork. This usually takes 15-20 minutes for fillets, depending on thickness.
- For extra flavor, check toward the end of cooking. If the tomatoes are blistering, it’s a good sign!
Remember, if you’re unsure, it’s better to undercook slightly than to overcook. You can always put it back in the oven for a few more minutes if needed. Happy cooking!
How to Make Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish:
- 2 white fish fillets (such as cod, haddock, or tilapia), about 6 oz each
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/3 cup green olives, pitted
- Fresh thyme sprigs (about 4-5 sprigs)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs (1-2 sprigs)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
For the Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then 15-20 minutes of baking. In total, you should plan for about 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for baking!
2. Make the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir it together to create a flavor-packed seasoning oil. This is key to giving your fish a wonderful taste!
3. Prepare the Fish:
Place the white fish fillets in a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Use a brush or spoon to generously coat both sides of the fish with the seasoning oil you just made.
4. Add Vegetables:
Now, scatter the cherry tomatoes and pitted green olives around the fish. Add the fresh thyme and rosemary sprigs on top and around the fish. These herbs will infuse their flavor into the fish and veggies as they bake.
5. Drizzle and Bake:
Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the tomatoes and olives before placing your dish in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the tomatoes begin to blister. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook!
6. Final Touches:
Once out of the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and vegetables for a bright finish. If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for added color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this delightful Mediterranean dish immediately with some crusty bread or a light salad to balance the flavors. Your taste buds are in for a treat!
This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish not only looks beautiful but also bursting with fresh flavors and is a breeze to prepare. Enjoy your meal with friends and family!
FAQ for Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Can I Use Frozen Fish Fillets for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. If you’re short on time, you can also run them under cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before applying the seasoning oil to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Green Olives?
If you’re not a fan of green olives, you can substitute them with black olives or capers for a similar briny flavor. If you’d like a milder taste, you can simply leave them out or replace them with sautéed bell peppers or artichoke hearts instead.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the seasoning oil and chop your vegetables in advance. If you want to prep the whole dish, assemble it a few hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook!
How Should I Store Leftover Baked Fish?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or in a microwave, making sure to cover it to maintain moisture. Enjoy it over salad or as a sandwich filling!
