Baked fish with tomatoes and olives

Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Olives

Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Olives is a light and flavorful Mediterranean-style dish. Tender fish fillets are baked with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, garlic, and herbs, creating a healthy meal that’s simple yet elegant. It pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.


Ingredients

For the Fish

  • 4 fish fillets (cod, tilapia, haddock, halibut, or sea bass)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt, to taste

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Tomato Olive Topping

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved

  • ½ cup olives (kalamata or black olives), sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme or basil

  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Optional Garnish

  • Lemon slices

  • Extra parsley

  • Crumbled feta cheese


Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.


2. Season the Fish

  1. Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.

  2. Place them in the prepared baking dish.

  3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

  4. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.


3. Prepare the Tomato Olive Mixture

In a bowl combine:

  • Cherry tomatoes

  • Sliced olives

  • Minced garlic

  • Red onion

  • Olive oil

  • Thyme or basil

  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix everything well so the tomatoes are coated with the seasoning.


4. Assemble the Dish

Spoon the tomato and olive mixture evenly over the fish fillets.
Make sure the fish is mostly covered with the mixture so it stays moist during baking.


5. Bake the Fish

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fish.

The fish is done when:

  • It flakes easily with a fork

  • The internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C)


6. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Add lemon slices or a little crumbled feta cheese if desired.


Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with:

  • Steamed rice or quinoa

  • Roasted potatoes

  • Garlic bread or crusty bread

  • A fresh Mediterranean salad


Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

  • Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying the fish.


Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh fish for the best flavor.

  • Don’t overcook the fish to keep it tender and juicy.

  • Add capers for extra Mediterranean flavor.

  • You can also add sliced zucchini or bell peppers to the baking dish.

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