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
Scale
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.
