This easy Mediterranean baked fish is light, tasty, and packed with fresh herbs. With simple ingredients like lemon, garlic, and tomatoes, it’s a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist!
I love how quick it is to prepare! Just pop it in the oven and relax while it cooks. Serve it with some crusty bread for a delightful meal. You’ll be hooked after the first bite! 🐟🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fish: White fish like cod, snapper, or sea bass are perfect choices for this recipe. If you can’t find these, other firm fish like halibut or tilapia also work great! For a budget-friendly option, try using frozen fillets—just thaw them before cooking.
Olive Oil: This provides richness and flavor. If you’re looking for a change, avocado oil can be a suitable substitute as it has a similar smoke point and adds a nice taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best here for its strong flavor. If you don’t have fresh, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder can be used. However, fresh really enhances that Mediterranean vibe!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano are key for flavor. If you’re out of fresh, dried herbs can be used, but remember they’re more potent, so use about one-third the amount.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. You can replace them with diced regular tomatoes or even olives for a different twist!
What’s the Best Way to Bake Fish for Tenderness?
Baking fish can be simple, but getting it just right is key for a tender result. Follow these tips for success:
- Temperature: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
- Moisture: Adding white wine or broth keeps the fish moist while baking. You can skip it, but it enhances flavor and prevents dryness.
- Timing: Bake the fish for 15-20 minutes, depending on thickness. It’s ready when it flakes easily with a fork. Check at 15 minutes to avoid overcooking!
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll achieve perfectly baked fish every time!
Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, snapper, or sea bass), about 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano or dill, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine or vegetable broth (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mediterranean baked fish can be made in about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 15-20 minutes of baking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the fish will cook evenly and get that lovely baked flavor.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a baking dish. This will help prevent the fish from sticking and add some extra flavor.
3. Arrange the Fish:
Place the fish fillets in a single layer in the dish, making sure they’re not overlapping. This helps them cook evenly.
4. Make the Herb Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs (parsley, basil, and oregano or dill), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
5. Add the Tomatoes:
Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and on top of the fish. These will roast beautifully and add a burst of sweetness!
6. Spoon the Mixture:
Using a spoon, evenly distribute the herb and garlic mixture over each fillet. Make sure each piece of fish is well-coated—this is where the flavor comes from!
7. Arrange Lemon Slices:
Next, lay the thin lemon slices over the fish and tomatoes. They will infuse the dish with a fresh, zesty flavor as it bakes.
8. Add Moisture:
If you’re using white wine or vegetable broth, pour it around the fish in the dish. This keeps everything juicy while it bakes.
9. Bake the Fish:
Put the dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check when the fish flakes easily with a fork—this means it’s ready!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the fish out of the oven. Garnish with a sprinkle of additional fresh herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that extra zing. Serve it up and enjoy!
Enjoy your flavorful Mediterranean baked fish with fresh herbs! It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy meal.
FAQs for Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Can I Use Frozen Fish for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw the fish overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What If I Don’t Have All the Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you’re missing some of the fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs instead. Just use about one-third of the amount specified, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Italian seasoning can also be a good substitute.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the fish, herbs, and tomatoes in advance, and then cover the dish in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the fish in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook it. Enjoy it cold on a salad for a refreshing option, too!
