There is something truly magical about the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean coming together in one dish, and that is exactly what you get with this Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe. Imagine tender, flaky cod fillets baked alongside juicy cherry tomatoes and briny Kalamata olives, all infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of lemon. This dish is a perfect harmony of freshness and warmth, making it an ideal dinner any night of the week. It’s simple to prepare but bursting with taste and color—the kind of recipe that instantly transports you to a sunny seaside table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe plays a critical role, bringing balanced flavors, textures, and gorgeous color contrasts to your plate. These are simple, kitchen-friendly staples that combine beautifully to make a dish that feels both elegant and effortless.
- 4 cod fillets (about 4-6 oz each): Choose thick, fresh fillets for moist, flaky fish that holds up well to baking.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: Their sweet juiciness adds bright pops of acidity and color.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced: These add a salty, slightly tangy depth that complements the mild cod perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with warm, aromatic undertones without overpowering it.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: A drizzle ensures rich flavor and helps everything bake evenly.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This classic herb brings an earthy, Mediterranean aroma that ties the dish together.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, fragrant note to highlight the tomatoes and fish.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little subtle heat that wakes up the palate.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Adds a vibrant, citrusy brightness that lifts the whole dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds fresh color and a mild herbal finish.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): For an extra squeeze of fresh citrus at the table.
How to Make Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking and help the cod cook evenly. Having your baking dish ready ensures a smooth workflow as you assemble the ingredients.
Step 2: Arrange the Ingredients
Place the fresh cod fillets in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Then scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives around the fish, giving every bite a perfect balance of juicy tomato sweetness and briny olive flavor.
Step 3: Season the Dish
Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and optional red pepper flakes evenly over the fish and vegetables. These herbs and spices infuse the dish with classic Mediterranean warmth and a gentle kick that elevates the entire flavor profile.
Step 4: Add Olive Oil, Salt, Pepper, and Lemon Juice
Drizzle everything generously with extra virgin olive oil to keep the fish moist and add richness to the tomatoes and olives. Then season with salt and pepper to your taste. Finally, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the entire dish—this little splash of citrus will brighten every ingredient and tie all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Bake the Cod and Vegetables
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know the cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. If you want those cherry tomatoes to blister and soften just a bit more, turn on the broiler for the last two minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a vibrant green contrast and fresh herbal flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze as they please—this final touch turns every bite into a bright, Mediterranean celebration.
How to Serve Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish for this dish because it keeps things light and fresh, but minced fresh herbs like dill or basil also work beautifully. A sprinkle of lemon zest can add another layer of citrus aroma, making your plate even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that let the flavors shine. Think fluffy couscous, garlic roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette. Crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices left in the baking dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the cod and its Mediterranean medley atop a bed of herbed quinoa for a modern twist. Or present individual portions in small cast iron skillets for an elegant touch at dinner parties. A drizzle of good olive oil right before serving adds shine and richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from this Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days, making a perfect quick lunch option or a second dinner.
Freezing
While freshly baked cod is always best, this dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place portions in freezer-safe containers, separating the fish and tomatoes if possible to maintain texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.
Reheating
To keep the cod moist during reheating, warm leftovers in a covered dish in the oven at 275 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, or microwave on medium power in short bursts. Avoid overcooking, as the fish can become dry quickly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of cod?
Absolutely! While cod’s mild flavor and firm texture work beautifully here, you can substitute with halibut, haddock, or even sea bass. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and type of fish to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe without olives?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of olives or need to avoid them, feel free to omit or replace them with capers for a similar briny punch. The dish will still be delicious and Mediterranean-inspired.
Can I add fresh herbs instead of dried?
Fresh herbs like oregano and basil add brightness and a slightly different flavor profile. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried to achieve the right intensity, and add fresh herbs toward the end of baking to keep their flavors vibrant.
How spicy does the red pepper flakes make the dish?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the other flavors without overwhelming the cod or tomatoes. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely depending on your heat preference.
What wine pairs well with this Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe?
A crisp, refreshing white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with this dish. The acidity in the wine balances the olive brininess and tomato sweetness perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe is one of those gems that feels special but is surprisingly simple to make any night of the week. Its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make it a favorite I love sharing with friends and family. If you’re ready to enjoy a fresh, healthy, and utterly delicious meal, I can’t recommend this dish enough—give it a try, and let it brighten your dinner table!
Print
Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring tender cod fillets baked alongside juicy cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and aromatic herbs. Enhanced with garlic, olive oil, and a touch of lemon, this recipe offers a simple yet satisfying Mediterranean-inspired meal perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Fish
- 4 cod fillets (about 4–6 oz each)
Vegetables & Olives
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
Seasonings
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for baking the fish evenly.
- Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly coat a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the cod from sticking during baking.
- Place Cod Fillets: Arrange the cod fillets evenly in the baking dish, making sure they have some space between each piece for even cooking.
- Add Tomatoes and Olives: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced Kalamata olives around the cod fillets in the dish.
- Season with Garlic and Herbs: Sprinkle minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) over the cod and vegetables for a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Pour the extra virgin olive oil evenly over the fish, tomatoes, and olives to coat all ingredients and enhance moisture and taste.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the entire dish to brighten the flavors and add a subtle tanginess.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Baking times may vary slightly depending on fillet thickness.
- Optional Broil: If the cherry tomatoes need more blistering or juiciness, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of cooking to caramelize them slightly.
- Remove and Garnish: Take the baking dish out of the oven once cooking is complete and garnish the cod with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
- Serve: Plate the cod alongside the roasted tomatoes and olives, serving with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.
Notes
- Adjust red pepper flakes based on your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.
- Ensure cod fillets are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Baking time depends on the thickness of your fish; check doneness by ensuring the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently to maintain moisture.
- Serve this dish with crusty bread or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
