Mediterranean Fish Bake Recipe

Light, vibrant, and absolutely bursting with flavor, Mediterranean Fish Bake is the kind of dish that will instantly transport your taste buds to sun-soaked coastal villages. Within thirty minutes, you’ll have a show-stopping dinner layered with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, fresh herbs, and perfectly flaky white fish—all in one effortless pan!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mediterranean Fish Bake is built on a handful of fresh, easy-to-find ingredients. Each one brings something special—think juicy tomatoes for brightness, fragrant herbs for depth, and silky olive oil that ties it all together for the perfect taste of the sea.

• White Fish Fillets (1½ lbs, such as cod or halibut): Choose firm, mild fish—cod, halibut, or even snapper—all offer perfectly flaky texture and delicate flavor.
• Kosher Salt & Ground Black Pepper: Simple seasoning lets the natural flavors of the fish shine through.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A generous drizzle brings luscious richness and a classic Mediterranean touch.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice adds tang and balance, making the whole dish sing.
• Cherry Tomatoes (8 oz, halved): These little bursts of juicy sweetness become heavenly when baked.
• Pitted Olives (3 oz, halved – Kalamata & green): A mix of olives introduces a briny pop and great visual contrast.
• Shallot (minced): Offers a subtle sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
• Garlic Cloves (4 to 5, minced): A must for that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma.
• Fresh Thyme Leaves (1 tbsp): Woodsy and fresh, they add complexity to every bite.
• Dried Oregano (2 tsp): A staple Mediterranean herb for warmth and earthiness.

Variations

One of the best things about Mediterranean Fish Bake is how easily it adapts to your cravings, the season, or whatever’s in your fridge. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this classic!

• Swap the fish: Try salmon, sea bass, or tilapia for something a little different—just adjust bake time as needed.
• Make it veggie-forward: Layer in zucchini, bell peppers, or artichokes for extra color and heft.
• Add feta or goat cheese: Scatter crumbles on top before baking for a creamy, tangy finish.
• Brighten with fresh herbs: Finish with chopped basil, parsley, or dill to amplify the garden-fresh vibes.

How to Make Mediterranean Fish Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Fish

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that comes up to temperature, gently pat your fish fillets dry with paper towels—this helps them crisp up beautifully. Season both sides with a sprinkle of kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Build the Baking Dish Foundation

Grab a 9½ x 13-inch baking dish and brush the bottom with extra virgin olive oil (just enough to coat). Scatter half of your halved cherry tomatoes across the base. Nestle the seasoned fish fillets on top, then squeeze juice from half your lemon generously over the fish—this ensures a bright, even layer of flavor right from the start.

Step 3: Mix the Mediterranean Topping

In a roomy bowl, combine the remaining cherry tomatoes, both types of halved olives, minced shallot and garlic, fresh thyme, and dried oregano. Add a very small pinch of salt and a good grind of pepper—you don’t need too much, since the olives add salty depth. Drizzle about 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over, and gently toss everything until it’s coated and glistening.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Spoon the tomato and olive mixture directly over the fish, making sure every fillet is snugly blanketed in those beautiful flavors. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The fish is done when it flakes gently with a fork and the tomatoes look juicy and slightly blistered.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Serve

When the dish emerges bubbling and fragrant, give it one last squeeze from your remaining half of lemon. This last blast of citrus wakes everything up and ties the whole Mediterranean Fish Bake together—serve immediately for maximum flavor and that wow moment at the table!

How to Serve Mediterranean Fish Bake

Garnishes

I love finishing my Mediterranean Fish Bake with a flourish of fresh herbs—chopped parsley or dill adds color and a burst of freshness. Grated lemon zest or an extra squeeze of lemon over each serving can really brighten things up, while a sprinkle of crumbled feta takes things boldly Greek.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs deliciously with pillowy couscous, a bowl of simply seasoned rice, or hunks of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. If you prefer something lighter, try it with a leafy green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette for a true Mediterranean meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the fish fillets straight from the baking dish family-style, letting everyone help themselves. Or, plate each portion atop a colorful bed of couscous, spooning those gorgeous roasted veggies and sauce on top. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a sprig of thyme for that restaurant-worthy final touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen, making the Mediterranean Fish Bake just as lovely the next day.

Freezing

While the vegetables freeze well, fish can become a bit delicate and watery after freezing and thawing. If you do choose to freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly and enjoy within a month for best flavor and texture—just know it’s best enjoyed fresh!

Reheating

To reheat, place the fish and veggies in a covered dish and warm gently in a 300°F oven until just heated through. Microwaving works in a pinch, but keep an eye out—a short burst is plenty to keep things tender, not rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Fish Bake is my go-to whenever I want a meal that feels luxurious yet is wildly easy. I truly hope you’ll give it a try—the flavors are bright, the process is simple, and every bite tastes like a little vacation. Enjoy, and let me know how you made it your own!

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