If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors yet incredibly easy to prepare, you’re in for a treat with this Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe. It brings together the bright, fresh essence of the Mediterranean with a perfectly seasoned fish fillet, cherry tomatoes, olives, and fragrant herbs all baked to succulent perfection. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of spices, buttery richness, and that charmingly rustic touch you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential to create a dish that is colorful, flavorful, and satisfying. Each component plays a crucial role—from seasoning that brings depth and warmth, to fresh herbs and juicy tomatoes that add brightness and texture.
- Fish fillet (Basa, Cod, Halibut, etc.): The centerpiece of the dish, choose a firm, white fish for perfect flakiness.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky, vibrant sweetness that complements the fish beautifully.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the Mediterranean flair.
- Cajun seasoning (Old Bay or Creole seasoning): Brings gentle heat and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Chili flakes: For a subtle kick to awaken the palate.
- Fish seasoning (optional): Enhances the seafood taste without overpowering.
- Salt: Balances and brings out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild sharpness for depth.
- Cooking oil: For searing the fish, creating a lovely crust.
- Cherry tomatoes: Their juiciness and tender skin offer a burst of freshness and subtle acidity.
- Olives (or capers): Contribute briny, savory notes that characterize Mediterranean cuisine.
- Fresh parsley: Provides a bright, herbaceous aroma and color contrast.
- Fresh thyme: Adds earthy, aromatic nuances that linger delightfully.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse the dish with warmth and a hint of sweetness.
- Water: Helps create a little steam to keep the fish moist while baking.
- Salted butter: Melts into the fish and veggies, enriching the dish with creamy indulgence.
- Pinch of salt and pepper: To season the tomatoes and finish the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
First things first, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s perfectly hot and ready for baking the fish to juicy tenderness without drying out.
Step 2: Season the fish
In a small bowl, combine paprika, Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, chili flakes, optional fish seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure to rub this fragrant mix on both sides of your fish fillet—it’s where the bold, layered flavors begin to develop.
Step 3: Sear the fish
Heat your cooking oil in a skillet on medium heat. Sear the fish for just one minute on each side to get a slightly charred, flavorful crust. This step locks in moisture and adds texture that’s simply irresistible. Then, set the fish aside for the next steps.
Step 4: Sauté the veggies and herbs
In the same skillet, toss in the cherry tomatoes, olives, fresh parsley, thyme, minced garlic, and a half teaspoon of the mixed seasoning you made earlier. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring gently until the tomatoes soften and fragrant herbs fill the kitchen air.
Step 5: Bake to finish
Nestle the seared fish back into the skillet or transfer everything into an oven-safe dish. Place dollops of salted butter on top of the fish—this buttery touch is what makes the flavors sing. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Ready to serve
Once baked, your Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe is ready to enjoy immediately. The blend of spices, softness of the fish, and the juicy vegetables combine to create a truly comforting yet fresh meal.
How to Serve Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like extra parsley or a sprig of thyme on top add a burst of color and hint of freshness that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. A light drizzle of good olive oil just before serving elevates the silky texture and intensifies Mediterranean flavors.
Side Dishes
This baked fish shines alongside roasted potatoes, fluffy saffron rice, or garlic herb potatoes. These sides soak up the buttery, herbed juices perfectly, turning the meal into a well-rounded Mediterranean feast. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables keep things light and vibrant as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the fish on a rustic wooden board with whole grain bread to mop up the sauce. Or plate it with a colorful couscous salad for a light summer dinner that looks beautiful on any table. Adding a wedge of lemon for squeezing adds brightness and a hint of zestiness at the last moment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The fish stays fresh for up to 2 days, making it an excellent leftover for a quick, wholesome lunch or light dinner the next day.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked fish, it’s best to freeze the uncooked, seasoned fish before baking if you want to prep ahead. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking for the freshest taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dab of butter before warming helps maintain moistness and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use any type of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While firmer white fish like Basa, Cod, or Halibut work best, you can use whatever fresh fillet you prefer. Just adjust cooking times slightly depending on the thickness.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs like parsley or thyme?
Dried herbs can be substituted, though fresh ones deliver a brighter flavor. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs as fresh, and add them earlier in the cooking process to release their aroma.
Is this Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe spicy?
It has a mild, pleasant warmth from chili flakes and Cajun seasoning, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can always adjust the chili flakes or omit them to suit your taste.
Can I prepare this recipe without searing the fish first?
Searing adds a delicious crust and texture but is optional. If you’re short on time, simply bake the seasoned fish with the other ingredients, though you may miss some of that added depth of flavor.
What’s the best way to choose fresh fish for this recipe?
Look for firm, moist fillets with a fresh, mild smell—avoid anything fishy or slimy. If possible, buy from a trusted fishmonger to get the best quality for an outstanding Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals whenever I want something delicious, wholesome, and effortless. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re dining by the sea even on a busy weeknight. Give it a try and discover just how satisfying and colorful simple ingredients can be when combined with care and a little love.
Print
Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Simple Mediterranean Baked Fish recipe offers a flavorful and healthy meal featuring lightly seared fish fillets infused with a blend of Mediterranean spices, fresh herbs, and vibrant cherry tomatoes. Baked to perfection with buttery undertones, this dish combines easy preparation with rich, aromatic flavors, perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner.
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 1 fish fillet (Basa, Cod, Halibut, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (Old Bay or Creole seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon fish seasoning (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon of the mixed seasoning above (for sauté)
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes (cut into medium chunks)
- ¼ cup olives (or capers as a substitute)
- 2 sprigs parsley (fresh)
- 2 sprigs thyme (fresh)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced or diced)
Fats and Liquids
- 3 tablespoons cooking oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- Pinch of salt and pepper (for seasoning during sauté)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the fish.
- Prepare the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine paprika, Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, chili flakes, fish seasoning (if using), salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly on both sides of the fish fillet to infuse it with flavor.
- Sear the Fish: Heat the cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the seasoned fish in the skillet and sear for about 1 minute on each side to develop a slight char, which enhances flavor and texture. Remove the fish and set it aside.
- Sauté Vegetables and Herbs: Using the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes, olives, fresh parsley and thyme sprigs, minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon of the seasoned spice mix. Stir and sauté for approximately 3 minutes until the tomatoes start releasing juices and the aroma develops.
- Bake the Fish: Return the seared fish to the skillet or transfer it to an oven-safe dish. Place salted butter on top of the fish. Add 2 tablespoons of water to the skillet to create a little steam for moisture while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the fish is fully cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Carefully remove the skillet or dish from the oven. Serve the Mediterranean baked fish hot, ideally accompanied by roasted potatoes, saffron rice, or garlic herb potatoes to complete the meal.
Notes
- Choose firm fish fillets like cod, halibut, or basa for best results.
- If you prefer less heat, adjust or omit the chili flakes.
- Fresh herbs add bright flavor but dried can be substituted in a pinch.
- Make sure to sear the fish briefly to enhance the texture before baking.
- Butter adds richness but can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter version.
- Check the fish for doneness after 10 minutes; cooking times may vary depending on thickness.
