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Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe

4.1 from 29 reviews

Mediterranean Baked Fish is a flavorful and healthy dish featuring tender fish fillets baked on a bed of sautéed vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and zucchini. Infused with fresh herbs like parsley and dill, and brightened with lemon zest and juice, this easy-to-make meal offers a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish and Seasoning

  • 4 whole fish fillets (such as snapper or cod)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 onion (sliced)
  • 1 bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 zucchini (sliced)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the fish.
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and to add flavor.
  3. Season the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano to infuse flavor.
  4. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add bell pepper and zucchini, cooking until just tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to bring out the aroma.
  5. Arrange Ingredients: Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place the seasoned fish fillets on top of the vegetables for even cooking and flavor melding.
  6. Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Scatter the cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, and dill over the fish fillets. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle lemon zest on top for a bright, fresh finish.
  7. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture, then bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  8. Uncover and Finish Cooking: Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through completely.
  9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and lemon wedges for presentation and extra flavor.
  10. Enjoy: Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Notes

  • Choose firm, fresh fish fillets like snapper, cod, or sea bass for the best texture and flavor.
  • Sautéing the vegetables before baking helps to soften them and enhances their natural sweetness.
  • Covering the dish while baking keeps the fish moist and tender.
  • Adjust baking time depending on the thickness of the fish fillets to avoid overcooking.
  • Serve with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to complement the flavors.
  • To make this recipe gluten-free or low-fat, ensure that all ingredients, including seasonings, meet those dietary needs.

Keywords: Mediterranean Baked Fish, baked fish fillets, healthy fish recipe, Mediterranean cuisine, lemon baked fish, easy fish recipe, baked snapper, cod recipe