When you want a meal that bursts with color, fresh flavors, and unbeatable simplicity, the Herb Baked Fish with Rainbow Bell Peppers Recipe is your new go-to. This dish is a vibrant celebration of tender white fish fillets baked alongside a medley of sweet, crisp bell peppers and aromatic herbs. Each bite is a perfect harmony of juicy fish, fragrant herbs, and the natural sweetness of rainbow bell peppers, making it both visually stunning and utterly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive plate to share with friends, this recipe brings Mediterranean sunshine right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this recipe shine. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and a colorful presentation that makes this dish so special.
- 4 white fish fillets: Choose cod, halibut, or tilapia for a flaky, mild base that bakes to perfection.
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green): Thinly sliced for a vibrant rainbow of flavor and crunch.
- 1 small red onion: Thinly sliced to add a subtle sharpness balancing the sweetness of the peppers.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Delivers richness and helps everything bake evenly with a lovely golden finish.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced to infuse the dish with a warm, savory depth.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brightens every bite with fresh citrus zing.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Chopped for a burst of herbal freshness and color contrast.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill: Chopped to introduce a delicate, slightly tangy herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds subtle earthiness to complement the fresh herbs.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- Lemon wedges: Perfect for serving and giving an extra citrus kick on the side.
How to Make Herb Baked Fish with Rainbow Bell Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan to keep the fish and vegetables from sticking, ensuring an easy clean-up and a nicely roasted finish.
Step 2: Toss Your Vegetables
In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the red onion. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently to coat every slice with that wonderfully aromatic olive oil and seasonings, so they roast evenly and caramelize slightly in the oven.
Step 3: Arrange the Vegetables and Fish
Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly across the prepared baking dish, creating a colorful bed. Lay your fish fillets on top of this vegetable mixture—this layering helps the fish stay moist while absorbing the beautiful flavors baking beneath.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and all the fresh lemon juice over the fish and vegetables. Sprinkle the chopped parsley and dill generously on top. These fresh herbs add a bright, fragrant lift that transforms the dish as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. That’s the moment when all the flavors have melded into something truly exceptional.
How to Serve Herb Baked Fish with Rainbow Bell Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your Herb Baked Fish with Rainbow Bell Peppers Recipe with a few lemon wedges on the side allows your guests to add a zesty pop of citrus if they wish. A sprinkling of extra fresh parsley or dill can also brighten the plate and refresh each bite.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like fluffy couscous, fluffy quinoa, or steamed rice. These grains soak up the delicious herb-infused juices and create a satisfying, balanced meal. Light green salads or roasted potatoes also complement the Mediterranean vibe perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, try serving individual portions in shallow bowls so the colorful peppers and herbs gleam boldly against the white fish. Alternatively, plate the fish atop a bed of your favorite grain and scatter the peppers artistically around for a bistro-style look that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Herb Baked Fish with Rainbow Bell Peppers Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Store the fish and vegetables together to preserve the flavors, but be sure to consume within this timeframe for the freshest taste and texture.
Freezing
If you have extra, you can freeze the cooked fish and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Make sure the dish has fully cooled before freezing to maintain the best quality. Label your container so you remember this colorful Mediterranean delight is waiting for you!
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven (around 300°F) or in the microwave on medium power. Avoid overheating to keep the fish tender and prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy. A quick warm-up is all it takes to bring it back to its charming best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cod, halibut, or tilapia are excellent choices, salmon and trout also work wonderfully, adding more richness and color to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s easy to prepare in advance and store in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for healthy meal prepping and quick dinners throughout the week.
Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Definitely. Thinly sliced zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus would complement the bell peppers beautifully and add more texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
Dried parsley and dill can be used in a pinch, but fresh herbs really elevate this recipe with their vibrant flavors, so try to use fresh if possible.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or finely diced fresh chili peppers over the vegetables before baking. It pairs perfectly with the freshness of the lemon and herbs.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about a dish that combines ease, health, and stunning colors all on one plate, and the Herb Baked Fish with Rainbow Bell Peppers Recipe does just that. I can’t wait for you to make it, share it, and enjoy every vibrant, herb-filled bite. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a cherished favorite in your rotation too.
Print
Herb Baked Fish with Rainbow Bell Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Herb Baked Fish with Rainbow Bell Peppers is a vibrant, healthy Mediterranean-inspired main dish featuring white fish fillets baked with colorful bell peppers, red onion, and fresh herbs. This easy-to-make recipe delivers tender, flaky fish infused with garlic, lemon, and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or a light meal option.
Ingredients
Fish and Vegetables
- 4 white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or tilapia)
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green, thinly sliced)
- 1 small red onion (thinly sliced)
Seasoning and Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Vegetables: In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced bell peppers and red onion with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread the seasoned vegetables evenly in the greased baking dish to form a bed for the fish.
- Place Fish on Vegetables: Lay the fish fillets gently on top of the vegetables, spacing them out to ensure even cooking.
- Add Final Touches: Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the fresh lemon juice over the fish and vegetables. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and dill over the top for a burst of herbal flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm, accompanied by lemon wedges for an extra citrus zing.
Notes
- This recipe is versatile and works well with salmon or trout as alternatives to white fish.
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the dish before baking.
- Serving suggestions include pairing this dish with rice, couscous, or quinoa to make a complete and satisfying meal.
