Name: Mediterranean Baked Cod
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (about 2 cups), halved if very large; ½ cup thinly sliced red onion; 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1 cup black or green olives (or a mix of both), pitted and halved; ¼ cup capers; 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning or dried oregano, divided; ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional); 1.5 – 2 lbs cod, cut into 4 fillets; 1 lemon (half sliced and half for drizzling); 2 tablespoons fresh chopped thyme leaves or basil (optional for garnish)

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Mediterranean Baked Cod is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the lightness of cod fillets with a burst of Mediterranean flavors from cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, and aromatic herbs. This one-pan meal is both healthy and delicious, offering a vibrant and nutritious dinner that’s ready in just 40 minutes.

Mediterranean Baked Cod

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mediterranean Baked Cod recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, featuring tender cod fillets baked in a rich, tangy sauce made with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and savory capers. The dish is bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors and is incredibly easy to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s light, fresh, and perfect when served with a side of rice, couscous, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients

For the sauce

1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes (about 2 cups), halved if very large
½ cup thinly sliced red onion
3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 cup black or green olives (or a mix of both), pitted and halved
¼ cup capers
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning or dried oregano, divided
¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

For the cod

1.5 – 2 lbs cod, cut into 4 fillets
1 lemon (half sliced and half for drizzling)
2 tablespoons fresh chopped thyme leaves or basil (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Heat the oven to 425ºF (220ºC).
Prepare the Tomato Mixture: Place the tomatoes, onions, garlic, olives, and capers in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano), and chili flakes (if using). Toss everything to combine.
Roast the Tomato Mixture: Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tomatoes begin to collapse and the onions soften.
Prepare the Cod: While the tomato mixture is roasting, pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with ½ teaspoon salt, pepper to taste, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning (or oregano).
Assemble the Dish: After the tomato mixture has roasted, remove the baking dish from the oven and gently lay the cod fillets over the tomato mixture. If desired, place the lemon slices under the cod or use them as a garnish later.
Bake the Cod: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 12 minutes, or until the fish is slightly firm and flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh thyme or basil, if desired. Serve the Mediterranean Baked Cod immediately with your choice of sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Different Fish: You can substitute cod with other white fish such as haddock, tilapia, or sea bass.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or artichokes for more texture and flavor.
Make it Spicy: Increase the chili flakes or add a fresh chopped chili for more heat in the sauce.

Storage/reheating

Allow the fish to cool but don’t leave it at room temperature for more than 1 hour. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the cod and sauce in a small baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated 350ºF (175ºC) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, heat the tomato mixture in a small pan over medium heat and add the fish for 3 minutes to warm it up.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but cherry tomatoes provide a sweeter flavor and better texture. If using larger tomatoes, cut them into smaller chunks.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply assemble and bake the cod with the prepared mixture.

Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod, but be sure to thaw it properly before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick-thaw method by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water.

What should I serve with Mediterranean Baked Cod?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, couscous, or quinoa. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.

How do I know when the cod is done?

The cod is done when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. It should feel firm to the touch but not dry.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Baked Cod is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together bright, bold flavors with minimal effort. The juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and capers form a tangy sauce that complements the tender, flaky fish perfectly. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers a burst of Mediterranean goodness with every bite!