If you are craving a dish that bursts with vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, this Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Herbs Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful combination of tender, flaky fish wrapped in an aromatic blend of herbs and enriched by the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the salty punch of olives. The simplicity of the ingredients, paired with the ease of preparation, transforms any weeknight dinner into a special occasion. Every bite feels like a sunny afternoon in the Mediterranean, making it a new staple for your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward yet essential ingredients that each bring their own magic—fresh herbs, tangy lemon, and vibrant vegetables work harmoniously to create a colorful and flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll gather to make this delightful meal:
- 2 Fish fillets: Choose firm white fish like cod, sea bass, or snapper for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- 6 sprigs Thyme, chopped: Adds an earthy, slightly minty aroma that complements seafood beautifully.
- 3 sprigs Rosemary, chopped: Infuses an aromatic, pine-like depth to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon Oregano, dried: A classic Mediterranean herb that brings a warm, peppery note.
- 2 teaspoon Parsley, chopped or dried: Offers bright, fresh undertones that lighten the dish.
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced or chopped or 2 teaspoon paste: Gives a pungent and savory kick, an absolute must for depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Basil, chopped (optional): Adds a sweet, slightly floral flavor that enhances complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest: Brings citrus brightness that cuts through richness and elevates the seafood.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice: Adds tanginess and helps tenderize the fish while lifting all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Sweet chili sauce: Introduces a gentle sweet-heat balance for a subtle but exciting twist.
- ½ teaspoon Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- ¼ cup Olive oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking that enriches the marinade and ensures a luscious finish.
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes: Burst with sweetness and juiciness to complement the fish perfectly.
- ½ cup Olives, pitted: Provide a briny, savory punch that contrasts wonderfully with the tomatoes.
- 1 medium Onion, diced: Offers a mild sweetness and additional texture.
- 1 Zucchini, diced: Adds a tender bite and vibrant green color, balancing the dish.
How to Make Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This initial preparation sets the stage for an easy and successful bake.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the thyme, rosemary, oregano, parsley, garlic, optional basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, sweet chili sauce, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. This marinade is the heart of the recipe, layering intense herbal and citrus flavors that will soak into the fish and vegetables.
Step 3: Marinate the Fish
Gently rub the marinade all over both sides of your fish fillets. This step ensures every bite is infused with a burst of fresh herbs and tangy seasoning. Letting it sit for a few minutes before assembling will deepen the flavor even more.
Step 4: Coat the Vegetables
Take the diced onions, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and olives, and toss them into the bowl with any leftover marinade. Mixing well ensures all the veggies get a delicious coating that will roast up sweet and tender alongside the fish.
Step 5: Assemble for Baking
Spread the marinated vegetables evenly in the prepared baking dish and nestle the fish fillets gently on top. This layering allows the juices from the fish to mingle with the vibrant veggies as everything cooks together.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. The fish should flake easily with a fork, and the vegetables should be tender yet still vibrant. This quick bake time locks in moisture and freshness.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for five minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors settle and the juices redistribute, making every mouthful tender and flavorful.
How to Serve Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few more sprigs of thyme for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side can also brighten up the presentation while adding fresh zest as needed at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple, complementary sides like crusty bread to soak up the juices, fluffy couscous to add a light grain element, or a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette for contrast. These choices keep the meal balanced without overwhelming the delicate flavors of the fish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the baked fish and vegetables in individual shallow bowls to showcase the colorful medley. Alternatively, arrange the fish on a large platter surrounded by the veggies, garnished with lemon slices for an inviting communal style that encourages sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Herbs Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keeping the fish separate from the vegetables will help maintain texture, but together they still reheat well.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze this dish without the vegetables, as they may become too soft when thawed. Wrap the fish fillets tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a gentle oven around 325°F or in a microwave on a low setting to avoid drying out the fish. Adding a splash of water or lemon juice before reheating can help revive the moisture and prevent the dish from tasting dull after storage.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, frozen fish fillets work perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat dry before marinating for the best results.
What other types of fish can I use for the Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Herbs Recipe?
Firm white fish such as halibut, tilapia, or haddock are excellent substitutes. They hold up well to baking and absorb flavors beautifully.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of sweet chili sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade to give it a spicy kick without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat or gluten ingredients. Just make sure any additional side dishes you serve are gluten-free as well.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
For a plant-based version, substitute the fish with thick slices of eggplant or large portobello mushrooms. The same marinade and baking method will yield a delicious and hearty vegetarian meal.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Herbs Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome at the same time. It’s bursting with fresh flavors, simple to prepare, and packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish both body and soul. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this easy yet impressive meal time and time again.
Print
Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes, Olives, and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful Mediterranean baked fish recipe featuring fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, olives, onion, and zucchini. This easy-to-make dish combines a fragrant herb marinade with healthy olive oil and is baked to perfection, delivering a light and delicious meal in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Fish and Marinade
- 2 Fish fillets
- 6 sprigs Thyme, chopped
- 3 sprigs Rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Oregano, dried
- 2 teaspoon Parsley, chopped or dried
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced or chopped (or 2 teaspoon garlic paste)
- 1 teaspoon Basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Sweet chilli sauce
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- ¼ cup Olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup Olives, pitted
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 1 Zucchini, diced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400℉ (200℃) and lightly grease or line a baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, combine chopped thyme, rosemary, dried oregano, parsley, minced garlic, optional basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, sweet chilli sauce, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade.
- Marinate Fish: Rub the prepared marinade generously onto both sides of the fish fillets, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Coat Vegetables: Add the cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, diced onion, and diced zucchini to any remaining marinade in the bowl. Mix thoroughly so the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Pour the marinated vegetables into the prepared baking dish and spread them out evenly. Place the marinated fish fillets on top of the vegetables.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 400℉ (200℃) for about 15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and vegetables are tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the fish to finish cooking gently. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use firm white fish fillets like cod, haddock, or sea bass for best results.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of sweet chili sauce or add a pinch of red chili flakes.
- You can substitute fresh herbs with dried ones if fresh are unavailable, adjusting quantities accordingly (use about one-third the amount of dried herbs).
- Serve with crusty bread or a side of couscous or rice to make a complete meal.
- Leftover fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
