Imagine a dish that captures the essence of sun-drenched Mediterranean coastlines, where fresh seafood meets vibrant, bold flavors. This Mediterranean Style Baked Cod is not just a recipe—it's a culinary journey that transforms a simple fish into a gourmet experience. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you'll create a restaurant-worthy meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Get ready to unlock the secrets of Mediterranean cooking right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the cod and ensuring it cooks evenly while allowing the flavors to meld.
- Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with a little olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced kalamata olives. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the mixture gently to coat the tomatoes and olives evenly.
- Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Season each fillet with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Pour the tomato and olive mixture over the cod fillets, distributing it evenly. This will infuse the fish with Mediterranean flavors as it bakes.
- Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top of the fish and vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the chopped fresh oregano over everything, adding a burst of herbaceous flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The cherry tomatoes should be softened and the olives warmed through.
- Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to settle, enhancing the flavor.
- Serve the baked cod hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing lemon juice over the fish just before eating adds a refreshing brightness to the dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Cod: Always select fresh, high-quality cod fillets for the best flavor and texture. Look for firm, white fish with no strong fishy smell.
- Don't Overcook: Cod is delicate and can dry out quickly. Watch it carefully and remove from the oven as soon as it becomes opaque and flakes easily.
- Use High-Quality Olive Oil: Since Mediterranean cuisine relies heavily on olive oil, invest in a good extra virgin olive oil for maximum flavor.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: If possible, use fresh oregano instead of dried. The bright, aromatic flavor will elevate the entire dish.
- Lemon is Key: Always serve with fresh lemon wedges. The citrus brightness cuts through the richness of the fish and enhances the Mediterranean profile.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld and ensures the fish remains moist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 309kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 70mg
