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If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with bright, fresh flavors and comes together without any fuss, this Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe is an absolute game changer. Perfectly flaky fish fillets bake alongside vibrant cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and fragrant herbs, making every bite a celebration of Mediterranean sunshine and warmth. This recipe balances simplicity and depth so beautifully, it’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe is simple yet essential, combining to create a rainbow of flavors, textures, and colors that bring the dish to life. From fresh herbs to ripe tomatoes and succulent fish, these elements work harmoniously to deliver a delicious and healthy meal.
- 2 fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut): Choose firm, white fish for a tender, flaky finish that soaks up the Mediterranean flavors.
- 6 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped: Adds an earthy, floral note that complements the fish beautifully.
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped: Brings piney, aromatic warmth to the dish, enhancing its depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that ties all the flavors together.
- 2 teaspoons parsley, chopped or dried: Gives a fresh, slightly peppery lift and lovely green color.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their natural sweetness and juiciness create a perfect contrast to the savory fish.
- ½ cup olives, pitted: Adds a salty, briny punch that is signature to Mediterranean cuisine.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a subtle sweetness and texture variation.
- 1 zucchini, diced: Offers a tender bite and mild flavor that soaks up the herbs and olive oil.
- Olive oil: Essential for richness and that authentic Mediterranean taste while keeping the fish moist.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors, letting the ingredients shine.
How to Make Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is just right to cook your fish gently, ensuring it stays tender and juicy without drying out. While the oven heats up, get your baking dish ready—this is where all the magic happens.
Step 2: Arrange the Fish Fillets
Place your chosen fish fillets directly into the baking dish. This sturdy base lets the flavors from the herbs and vegetables meld right into the fish as it bakes, providing every bite with those vibrant Mediterranean notes.
Step 3: Herb It Up
Generously sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme and rosemary over the fish, then add the dried oregano and parsley. These herbs are what give this recipe its unmistakable Mediterranean personality, contributing wonderful fragrance and depth.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Surround the fish with the halved cherry tomatoes, olives, diced onion, and zucchini. These colorful veggies not only add texture but they release their juices while roasting, creating a succulent, savory sauce that pairs perfectly with the fish.
Step 5: Season and Drizzle
Drizzle everything generously with olive oil, making sure the fish and veggies are well coated—this keeps them moist and infuses them with a rich, fruity flavor. Then season with salt and pepper to taste, balancing all those fresh ingredients perfectly.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know the fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender and caramelized around the edges. The aroma alone will make it impossible to wait any longer!
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Serve your Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe piping hot. For an added pop of freshness, sprinkle some extra chopped parsley on top just before serving. This final touch brightens everything up and makes it look as beautiful as it tastes.
How to Serve Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnishes can lift your dish from delicious to unforgettable. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds not only vibrant color but also a clean, refreshing finish that balances the savory richness of the baked fish. You could also add a few lemon wedges for a zesty twist that your guests will love.
Side Dishes
This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement rather than compete. Think fluffy couscous tossed with herbs, a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette, or even some warm, crusty bread to soak up those delightful juices from the baking dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the fish and vegetables family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy, rustic presentation that invites good conversation and easy sharing. Alternatively, plate it beautifully with a drizzle of good quality olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt flakes for a restaurant-quality feel at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your next meal just as enjoyable. Keep fish refrigerated promptly to maintain freshness and safety.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked fish and vegetables if necessary. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, or use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. Use within one month for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to avoid drying out the fish. Alternatively, warming in a microwave on a low power setting works, but keep an eye on it to maintain the delicate texture. Adding a splash of olive oil before reheating can help keep everything moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before baking to keep the texture firm and prevent excess moisture from diluting the flavors.
What other herbs can I substitute if I don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary?
Dried herbs can work in a pinch, or you can try basil and marjoram for a slightly different but still Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s a fantastic option for meal prepping since the fish and veggies hold up well when stored. Just reheat gently before eating, and consider adding fresh garnishes to brighten it up.
Can I double the recipe for more people?
Definitely! Use a larger baking dish or two, and keep the baking time similar. Just be sure not to overcrowd the fish and vegetables so they cook evenly.
What wine pairs well with this Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe?
A crisp, dry white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light Vermentino pairs beautifully, as their bright acidity complements the herbs and fresh vegetables.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to enjoy the freshest flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for two or treating friends, the simplicity paired with those wholesome ingredients makes it a total winner. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to dishes for a healthy, satisfying dinner any night of the week.
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Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish recipe features tender fish fillets baked with a fragrant blend of fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, olives, and zucchini. The dish is flavored with thyme, rosemary, oregano, and parsley, then drizzled with olive oil and baked to perfection, creating a light and healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both simple to make and full of vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Fish and Herbs
- 2 fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or halibut)
- 6 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons parsley, chopped or dried
Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup olives, pitted
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
Seasoning and Oil
- Olive oil (about 2 tablespoons for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is at the perfect temperature for baking the fish evenly.
- Prepare the fish: Place the fish fillets in a suitable baking dish, making sure they lay flat and are spaced evenly.
- Add herbs: Sprinkle the chopped fresh thyme, rosemary, dried oregano, and parsley evenly over the top of the fish fillets to infuse them with aromatic Mediterranean flavors.
- Arrange vegetables: Surround the fish in the baking dish with the halved cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, diced onion, and diced zucchini for a colorful and flavorful vegetable medley.
- Season and oil: Drizzle the fish and vegetables generously with olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Bake the dish: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is thoroughly cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the Mediterranean baked fish hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired for extra freshness and presentation.
Notes
- Use firm white fish fillets like cod, tilapia, or halibut for the best texture.
- Fresh herbs provide brighter flavors, but dried can be used if fresh are unavailable.
- Adjust the baking time based on the thickness of your fish fillets.
- This dish pairs well with a side of couscous, quinoa, or crusty bread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day but are best eaten fresh.
