When you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors yet comes together effortlessly, this Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender white fish fillets roasted to perfection with zesty lemon, fragrant oregano, sweet cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of salty feta cheese. It’s a stunning blend of vibrant ingredients that delivers a wholesome, healthy meal in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast, this Mediterranean-inspired dish will quickly become a favorite staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe, the ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing its own unique touch to the final dish. From the floral notes of oregano to the bright acidity of lemon and the rich, creamy feta, they work together to create a harmonious balance of taste, texture, and color.
- White fish fillets (4 pieces): Choose cod, tilapia, or halibut for mild flavor and flaky texture.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps carry the lemon and herbs.
- Lemon (1, zested and juiced): Infuses brightness and freshness to the dish.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): A classic Mediterranean herb that enhances the savory profile.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Provides a gentle garlic aroma without overpowering.
- Paprika (½ tsp): Brings a subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
- Salt (1 tsp): Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds mild heat and depth.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Juicy bursts that soften during baking and add sweetness.
- Kalamata olives (½ cup, pitted and sliced): Impart a tangy, briny kick.
- Red onion (¼ cup, thinly sliced): Offers crunch and a touch of sharpness.
- Feta cheese (¼ cup, crumbled): Creamy and salty, it ties all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish and vibrant green color.
How to Make Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish lightly to keep the fish from sticking and arrange your white fish fillets in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that perfect flaky texture.
Step 2: Make the Flavorful Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is the magic touch that infuses your fish with a burst of Mediterranean goodness.
Step 3: Dress the Fish
Pour the marinade evenly over the fish fillets, making sure each piece gets a generous coating. Then, scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onions over and around the fillets. This layering adds texture and a mosaic of flavors that bake beautifully together.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. The fish is ready when it becomes opaque and flakes easily when tested with a fork. The tomatoes soften into little pockets of sweetness while the onions mellow out.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley on top. These final touches add creaminess and a fresh herbal pop that elevates the dish to something truly special.
How to Serve Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the crumbled feta and parsley, you can add a twist by serving with lemon wedges for extra zing or a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil. These simple garnishes enhance the vibrant flavors and make each serving look inviting.
Side Dishes
This Mediterranean baked fish shines when paired with light and refreshing sides. Consider fluffy couscous, herbed rice, or a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or warm pita bread also make excellent companions, soaking up every bit of the delicious juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve this dish family-style right from the baking dish, letting everyone help themselves to the spectacular mix of fish and Mediterranean toppings. For a fancier presentation, plate individual fillets atop a bed of couscous and drizzle with extra marinade sauce, garnished with whole olives and halved cherry tomatoes for a colorful effect.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It retains its flavor well, making for an easy lunch or quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
While the texture is best fresh, you can freeze the cooked fish for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag to protect it from freezer burn. Thaw thoroughly in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low-temperature oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. Adding a small splash of olive oil or water before reheating helps keep it moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe works beautifully with any mild white fish that flakes easily, such as halibut, cod, or tilapia. Just adjust cooking time if fillets are especially thick or thin.
Do I need to marinate the fish before baking?
Marinating is optional but highly recommended if you have extra time. A 20-minute soak in the olive oil and lemon mixture enhances the flavors and keeps the fish juicy during baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of any side dishes or accompaniments you choose to serve with it, ensuring they fit your dietary needs.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the marinade and chop the vegetables ahead of time for quick assembly. However, it’s best to bake and serve the fish fresh to enjoy its optimal flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you don’t have feta or prefer a different cheese, small cubes of mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan can work. Just remember that feta brings a unique salty and tangy quality that’s characteristic of this Mediterranean dish.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe is a wonderful way to bring fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors to your table without any fuss. It’s quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. I encourage you to try it and watch how simple ingredients transform into a stunning dish everyone will love.
Print
Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish recipe features tender white fish fillets baked with a vibrant mixture of olive oil, lemon, oregano, garlic, and paprika, topped with fresh cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onions, crumbled feta cheese, and parsley. It’s a healthy, flavorful, and simple dish perfect for a nutritious Mediterranean-inspired main course.
Ingredients
Fish and Marinade
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- ½ cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and arrange the fish fillets in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will infuse the fish with bright, Mediterranean flavors.
- Apply marinade: Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the fish fillets, ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor absorption.
- Add toppings: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and thinly sliced red onion around and on top of the fish. These ingredients add texture and a burst of freshness.
- Bake the fish: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the fish turns opaque and easily flakes with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Remove the fish from the oven, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top for added flavor and a lovely presentation. Serve warm with your choice of rice, couscous, or a fresh side salad.
Notes
- Any mild white fish such as cod, tilapia, or halibut can be used in this recipe.
- For extra flavor, marinate the fish in the olive oil and lemon mixture for 20 minutes before baking.
- This dish pairs well with rice, couscous, or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
