Mediterranean Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Lemon
Ingredients
4 white fish fillets, such as cod, haddock, or tilapia
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 lemon, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish with a little olive oil.
2. Season the Fish
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Place them in the prepared baking dish and season both sides with salt, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and paprika.
3. Add the Mediterranean Ingredients
Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes, lemon slices, and Kalamata olives around and between the fish fillets. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over everything.
4. Add Olive Oil
Drizzle the olive oil over the fish and vegetables. Finish with fresh lemon juice and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
5. Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15–20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish. The fish should become opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork. Avoid overbaking, as thinner fillets can cook quickly.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Spoon some of the warm tomato and olive juices over the fish, then sprinkle generously with fresh parsley. Add extra lemon wedges for serving.
Tips for the Best Fish
Choose fresh, firm white fish fillets of similar thickness so they cook evenly. If using frozen fish, thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning. For extra flavor, marinate the fish with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 15–30 minutes before baking.
You can also add sliced red onion, spinach, zucchini, or capers for additional Mediterranean flavor. Serve the fish with warm crusty bread, rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad to complete the meal.
Servings
Serves 4
Approximate Nutritional Information
Per serving: 320 calories, 35g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 16g fat, depending on the type of fish and amount of olive oil used.