Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish
Jump To Menu Section
ToggleThis Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish is light, flavorful, and packed with fresh Mediterranean ingredients like tomatoes, olives, garlic, lemon, and herbs. It’s a healthy, protein-rich dinner that’s ready in under 40 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Fish
- 4 white fish fillets (cod, halibut, haddock, tilapia, or sea bass), about 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Juice of 1 lemon
Mediterranean Topping
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup sliced Kalamata olives
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges
- Crumbled feta cheese
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Step 2: Season the Fish
Pat the fish dry with paper towels.
Season both sides with:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Dried oregano
- Dried thyme
Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil.
Arrange the fillets in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Topping
In a bowl combine:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Kalamata olives
- Red onion
- Garlic
- Capers
- Olive oil
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Basil
Mix well.
Spoon the mixture evenly over the fish.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish.
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Garnish
Sprinkle with additional parsley and, if desired, crumbled feta cheese.
Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.
Serving Suggestions
- Greek lemon potatoes
- Mediterranean rice
- Quinoa
- Couscous
- Roasted asparagus
- Steamed broccoli
- Greek salad
- Garlic green beans
- Warm whole wheat pita
- Tzatziki sauce
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked fish for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Oven: 325°F (163°C) for 10–12 minutes
- Air Fryer: 325°F (163°C) for 5–6 minutes
- Microwave: Heat gently in 30-second intervals until warmed through
Tips for Success
- Use fresh fish whenever possible.
- Pat the fish dry before seasoning.
- Do not overcook the fish to keep it moist.
- Fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor.
- Add feta after baking so it stays creamy.
- Fresh herbs give the dish a brighter Mediterranean taste.
Nut Information
Nut-Free: Yes. This recipe contains no peanuts or tree nuts.
Common Allergens
- Fish
- Milk (only if feta cheese is added)
Cross-Contamination
If preparing for someone with a severe nut allergy:
- Check that packaged olives, capers, and seasonings are processed in nut-free facilities.
- Use clean utensils, cutting boards, and cookware to prevent cross-contact.
Gluten-Free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure any packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free if necessary.
Dairy-Free Option
Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free feta alternative.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 295
- Protein: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Questions & Answers
Q1. What type of fish works best?
Cod, halibut, haddock, sea bass, snapper, mahi-mahi, and tilapia all work well.
Q2. Can I use frozen fish?
Yes. Thaw the fish completely and pat it dry before seasoning and baking.
Q3. How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the topping in advance and refrigerate it. Bake the fish just before serving for the best texture.
Q5. Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, artichokes, and sliced mushrooms are excellent additions.
Q6. Can I grill the fish instead of baking it?
Yes. Grill over medium heat for about 4–6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Q7. Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. It is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for a keto lifestyle.
Q8. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes. Use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh herbs.
Q9. What sauces pair well with this dish?
Tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, lemon herb butter, or a simple drizzle of extra virgin olive oil all pair beautifully.
Q10. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes. It’s high in lean protein, rich in heart-healthy olive oil, and loaded with fresh Mediterranean vegetables and herbs, making it an excellent choice for a balanced Mediterranean diet.
