Description
This Mediterranean Baked Fish Delight features tender white fish fillets seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, baked to perfection with juicy cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, capers, and fresh herbs. A light lemon and olive oil dressing enhances the vibrant Mediterranean flavors, making it a healthy and flavorful dish perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Seasoning
- 4 filets of white fish (such as cod, halibut, or sea bass)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and drained
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Dressing
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the fish.
- Prepare the Fish: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the fish fillets.
- Arrange Fish in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned fish fillets in a baking dish, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Add Toppings: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, chopped red onion, and capers evenly over and around the fish fillets for a flavorful Mediterranean touch.
- Bake the Fish: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Prepare the Dressing: While the fish is baking, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice in a small bowl to create a light dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the fish is cooked, remove from the oven and drizzle with the prepared dressing. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and dill for freshness. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Notes
- Choose fresh, firm white fish fillets for the best texture and flavor.
- Feel free to substitute fresh herbs with dried if fresh is not available, adjusting quantities accordingly.
- Capers and olives provide saltiness; adjust added salt accordingly.
- This recipe pairs well with a side of couscous, quinoa, or a simple green salad.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
