Imagine a culinary journey where every bite whispers tales of sun-drenched coastal landscapes and vibrant Mediterranean kitchens. Our Mediterranean Fish with Tapenade is not just a recipe—it's a sensory adventure that transforms simple fish fillets into a gourmet masterpiece. With just 30 minutes of total cooking time, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will impress your family and friends, proving that extraordinary meals can be surprisingly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets (e.g., cod or tilapia)
- 1/2 cup tapenade
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking fish, ensuring it becomes flaky and tender.
- Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
- Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture, allowing for better cooking.
- Season both sides of the fish fillets with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the natural flavors of the fish.
- Place the seasoned fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
- Spread 1/2 cup of tapenade evenly over the top of the fish fillets. The tapenade adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the fish beautifully.
- Arrange lemon slices on top of the tapenade-covered fish. The lemon will infuse the fish with a bright, zesty flavor as it bakes.
- Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the lemon slices and fish to add moisture and richness during cooking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the fillets.
- While the fish is baking, prepare a garnish by chopping fresh parsley. This will add a fresh, vibrant touch to your dish.
- Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the fillets.
- To serve, transfer the fish fillets to plates, spooning any remaining tapenade and juices from the baking dish over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.
- Enjoy your Mediterranean Fish with Tapenade alongside a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Fish: Select firm white fish like cod or tilapia that can hold up well to baking.
- Pat Fish Dry: Always ensure your fish fillets are thoroughly dried before seasoning to achieve a perfect, crisp exterior.
- Quality Matters: Use a high-quality, authentic olive tapenade for the most robust Mediterranean flavor.
- Don't Overcook: Fish cooks quickly; check it at the 15-minute mark to prevent drying out.
- Fresh Herbs Make a Difference: Use freshly chopped parsley just before serving to maximize flavor and visual appeal.
- Lemon is Key: The lemon slices aren't just decoration—they infuse the fish with bright, zesty notes during cooking.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the oven, to maintain its delicate texture and vibrant flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 145kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
