If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and comes together with ease, the Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful recipe captures the essence of the Mediterranean with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, fragrant garlic, and tender cod baked to perfection. It’s a wholesome, colorful meal that feels special but is surprisingly simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything in this Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe is simple yet essential, each ingredient adding its own magic to the final dish. From the firm, flaky cod to the sweet cherry tomatoes and salty olives, every element enhances the flavor, texture, and color.
- 1 ½ pounds cod fillet: Choose fresh, thick fillets for the best flaky texture.
- 1 small red onion (or large shallot, sliced): Adds a mild sweetness and crunch once baked.
- 3 cloves garlic (crushed): Infuses aromatic depth to the dish.
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes (halved): Pops of juicy freshness and vibrant color.
- ¼ cup sliced black olives: Provides a briny, salty contrast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The heart of Mediterranean cooking, brings richness and helps everything meld together.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the Mediterranean feel.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for balanced seasoning.
- ¼ cup white wine (or water): Adds moisture and a subtle acidity to brighten flavors.
- 4 tablespoons butter (chopped): Melts over the cod, adding luxurious richness.
How to Make Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a rectangular baking dish large enough to hold all the cod and vegetables comfortably. Place your cod fillets inside, arranging them so they can cook evenly. This initial setup is key for an even bake and to keep the fish moist and flaky.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Vegetables
Scatter the slices of red onion, crushed garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, and black olives around and atop the cod. Each ingredient not only brings vibrant color but also layers of contrasting flavors that complement the mildness of the cod beautifully.
Step 3: Season Everything Generously
Drizzle the olive oil over the fish and vegetables to add richness and help everything roast beautifully. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning, then season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to your liking. This step elevates the dish with aromatic herb notes and perfectly balanced seasoning.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Butter, Then Bake
Pour the white wine or water carefully into the dish around the cod—not on top—so it steams the fish lightly during baking. Scatter the chopped butter pieces over the whole dish. Pop it into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the tomatoes blister and the cod flakes easily with a fork. The butter melts to create a luscious, silky finish to this Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe.
How to Serve Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil brings a pop of green and fresh aroma that brightens the dish right before serving. A wedge of lemon is perfect for adding a zesty finish that cuts through the buttery richness.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple, light sides. Think fluffy couscous, a crisp green salad, or roasted baby potatoes that soak up the flavorful juices. The sides should complement without overpowering the delicate cod.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve the Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe on a rustic wooden board with crusty bread on the side for mopping up the juices. Alternatively, plating over a bed of saffron rice offers a colorful and fragrant presentation that feels special and satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cod and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the moisture and delicate texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh but leftovers can be a quick lunch or dinner.
Freezing
Freezing cooked baked cod is not recommended as the texture can become mushy upon thawing. If you want to prepare ahead, it’s best to freeze raw cod fillets and fresh ingredients separately, then assemble before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven at 300°F, covered with foil to retain moisture. Avoid the microwave if possible, since it can make the fish tough and unevenly heated. A short reheat preserves the tender, flaky nature of the cod beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use other fish instead of cod?
Absolutely! White fish like haddock, pollock, or halibut work well in this recipe thanks to their mild flavor and firm texture that holds up nicely when baked.
What if I don’t have white wine?
No worries! Water is a fine substitute and will still create a lovely steam to cook the fish. A splash of lemon juice can also add a bright note if you want to enhance flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can slice and prep the vegetables ahead, but it’s best to assemble and bake the dish right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?
The cod is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque all the way through. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep an eye during the last few minutes of baking.
Final Thoughts
This Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to return to again and again. It’s fresh, flavorful, and fuss-free — exactly what you need when you want a nourishing meal that feels both comforting and a little special. Give it a try soon, and I promise it will become one of your favorites too!
Print
Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Mediterranean Baked Cod recipe features tender cod fillets baked with a vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, black olives, onions, and garlic, seasoned with Italian herbs and finished with butter and white wine for a rich, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds cod fillet
- 1 small red onion (or large shallot), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 pound cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup white wine (or water)
- 4 tablespoons butter, chopped
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a rectangular baking dish that will comfortably fit your cod fillets and the accompanying vegetables. Place the cod fillets evenly inside the baking dish.
- Add Vegetables: Scatter the sliced red onion, crushed garlic, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced black olives around and on top of the cod fillets to create an even distribution of flavors.
- Season: Drizzle the olive oil all over the fish and vegetables to enhance moisture and flavor. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Finish and Bake: Pour the white wine or water into the dish to add moisture and help steam the fish during baking. Scatter the chopped butter evenly over the ingredients, which will melt and enrich the overall dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and the tomatoes are tender.
Notes
- If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute white wine with water as suggested.
- You can use large shallots instead of a red onion for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- For a stronger olive flavor, consider adding a few more olives or using Kalamata olives.
- Ensure the fish is cooked thoroughly but not overcooked to keep it moist and flaky.
- Serve with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.
