Baked Lemon Herb Fish Fillets
Ingredients
4 white fish fillets, such as cod, haddock, tilapia, or pollock
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
1 lemon, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick to the fish and prevents excess moisture from diluting the flavors.
Arrange the fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. If the fillets have different thicknesses, place the thicker pieces toward the center of the dish.
3. Make the Lemon Herb Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Mix well until the ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Season the Fish
Pour the lemon herb mixture evenly over the fish fillets. Use a pastry brush or spoon to coat the tops thoroughly.
Arrange thin lemon slices around and on top of the fish for additional citrus flavor.
For even more flavor, allow the seasoned fish to rest for 10–15 minutes before baking.
5. Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15–20 minutes.
The exact cooking time depends on the thickness and type of fish. The fillets are ready when they become opaque and easily flake with a fork.
For food safety, fish should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Avoid overbaking because white fish can become dry when cooked for too long.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the fish from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes.
Spoon some of the warm lemon-herb juices from the baking dish over each fillet. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
Tips
For the best flavor, use fresh lemon juice and freshly minced garlic. You can add cherry tomatoes, sliced zucchini, olives, or capers to the baking dish for a Mediterranean-style variation.
Serve the fish with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, fluffy rice, couscous, or a crisp cucumber-tomato salad. Crusty bread is also excellent for soaking up the flavorful lemon-herb juices.
Servings
Serves 4
Nutritional Information
Approximately 280 calories per serving, depending on the type of fish and amount of olive oil used.
Benefits
White fish provides lean, high-quality protein, while olive oil contributes unsaturated fats. Lemon and fresh herbs add bright flavor without requiring a heavy sauce, making this an easy and satisfying meal for everyday cooking.