This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish is a winning dish! With fresh herbs, lemon, and a hint of garlic, it’s light and full of flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
I love how simple it is to make—just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing while I relax. Plus, it smells amazing while cooking, making the whole house feel cozy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish Fillets: Cod, halibut, or sea bass are great choices due to their firm texture. If these aren’t available, you can use tilapia or even salmon for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds robust flavor and is key for cooking. In case you need a substitute, avocado oil works well with a similar high smoke point.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, and basil really brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, about 1 teaspoon of each dried herb can be used, but fresh is always best!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a sweetness and pop of color. You can use other tomatoes like grape or even canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.
Kalamata Olives: These are optional but add a nice briny flavor. If you don’t have them, green olives or capers can be used for a similar kick.
How Do You Bake Fish Without Overcooking It?
Baking fish can be tricky since it cooks quickly, but with a few tips, you can get it just right! Follow these steps for perfectly cooked fish:
- Measure the thickness of your fish fillets; usually, fish needs about 10 minutes of baking per inch of thickness.
- Use a fork to check for doneness; fish should flake easily and be opaque inside. Keep an eye on the time, around 15-20 minutes works for most fillets.
- Take the fish out as soon as it reaches this stage, as it continues to cook slightly even after being removed from the oven.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving to finish cooking gently.
With these tips, you’ll serve up a dish that’s not just tasty but also perfectly cooked every time!
Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or sea bass), about 6 ounces each
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Fresh Herbs and Vegetables:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
Seasoning:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- Optional garnish: lemon wedges and extra fresh herbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean Baked Fish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll need roughly 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and healthy meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your fish will cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried oregano, and dried thyme. This will create a flavorful marinade to coat the fish.
3. Prepare the Fish:
Next, place the white fish fillets in a baking dish. Season each fillet generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
4. Add the Marinade:
Pour the olive oil mixture evenly over the fish fillets, making sure they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
5. Layer the Vegetables:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, and olives (if using) around and on top of the fillets. This adds colors, flavors, and nutrients.
6. Sprinkle the Herbs:
Evenly sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, and basil) over the fish and vegetables to infuse everything with a fresh Mediterranean twist.
7. Bake the Fish:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the fish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to settle, making for a moist dish. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a bright finish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Mediterranean baked fish alongside crusty bread or a simple Mediterranean salad. Enjoy this light, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Frozen Fish Fillets for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen fish, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the refrigerator or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Fish?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, being careful not to dry it out.
Can I Substitute the Fresh Herbs?
Absolutely! If you don’t have all the fresh herbs listed, you can substitute with other herbs you enjoy, such as cilantro or chives. Just keep in mind that dried herbs can also work—about 1 teaspoon of each dried herb can replace fresh options if needed.
What Should I Serve with Baked Fish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a refreshing Mediterranean salad, sautéed greens, or a side of couscous or quinoa to soak up the delicious juices. Crusty bread is also a fantastic choice!
