When you’re after something light but still satisfying, this Mediterranean Baked Cod hits the sweet spot. It’s packed with bright, briny flavor thanks to juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, and fresh herbs—all baked in one dish.

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something healthy but don’t want to spend forever in the kitchen. The fish turns out flaky and tender, and the topping delivers just the right balance of acidity and richness.

Best of all, it’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests. Serve it with fluffy couscous or a crisp green salad, and you’ve got a fresh, no-fuss dinner the whole family can enjoy.

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 300–400 calories per serving

Ingredients

• Cod fillets
• Cherry tomatoes
• Kalamata olives
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Lemon
• Fresh parsley
• Dried oregano

Instructions

• Preheat the Oven: Heat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Prepare the Topping: Mix tomatoes, olives, garlic, oil, herbs, and lemon juice in a bowl.
• Assemble the Dish: Lay cod fillets in a baking dish and spoon topping over them.
• Bake Until Flaky: Bake for 12–15 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
• Serve Fresh: Garnish with parsley and serve with couscous or salad.

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap Cod: Use haddock, tilapia, or salmon if cod isn’t available.
• Add Veggies: Mix in zucchini or red onions for extra texture.
• Go Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
• Herb Options: Substitute fresh basil or dill if you don’t have parsley.

What Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon

Storage & Reheating Guidelines

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. Splash with a bit of water or lemon juice to keep the fish moist.

Top Tips

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give fillets room in the dish for even cooking.
• Prep Ahead: Chop tomatoes and olives ahead of time for quicker assembly.
• Taste and Adjust: Squeeze extra lemon or season with more salt to balance flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen cod?
  Yes—just thaw it fully and pat dry before baking.
• Is this dish gluten-free?
  Yes, as long as you serve it with a gluten-free side.
• Can I make this ahead?
  You can prep the topping ahead, but bake the fish fresh.

Related Recipes

• Honey Garlic Salmon with Greens: Sweet and sticky salmon with steamed greens for a lighter, flavor-packed meal.
• Thai Red Curry with Prawns: Creamy and spicy Thai-inspired curry ready in 25 minutes.

Food Safety Guidelines

• Cook to Temperature: Ensure cod reaches 145°F internally.
• Use Fresh Fish: Check for a clean smell and firm texture.
• Refrigerate Promptly: Store leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.