Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
Introduction
This Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives is a light and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining tender cod with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and fragrant basil, it brings fresh, vibrant flavors to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the cod fillets in a baking dish in a single layer.
- Step 2: Top the fillets with halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and minced garlic. Drizzle evenly with olive oil.
- Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
- Step 5: Serve warm, ideally with steamed vegetables or whole-grain couscous for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the cod in olive oil and garlic for 15 minutes before baking.
- Substitute Kalamata olives with green olives if preferred.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the topping for a subtle kick.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cod fillets for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cod fillets can be used. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with Mediterranean baked cod?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, whole-grain couscous, rice, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
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Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives is a simple, flavorful dish that combines tender, flaky cod fillets with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant garlic. Baked to perfection and garnished with fresh basil, it makes a healthy, vibrant meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Seafood
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Oils & Others
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Cod: Place the cod fillets in a single layer in a baking dish, ensuring they are spaced evenly for even cooking.
- Add Toppings: Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives evenly over the cod. Sprinkle the minced garlic on top and drizzle the olive oil over all ingredients to enhance flavor and help keep the fish moist during baking.
- Bake the Fish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cod for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and garnish the cod with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately, ideally alongside steamed vegetables or whole-grain couscous for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Ensure the baking dish is not overcrowded to allow even baking.
- Use fresh basil for garnish to maximize aroma and flavor.
- The presence of olives adds saltiness; adjust any additional seasoning accordingly.
- Cod can be substituted with other flaky white fish like haddock or halibut.
- Steaming vegetables or cooking whole-grain couscous separately complements the dish well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean baked cod, cod with tomatoes and olives, healthy baked fish recipe, easy Mediterranean fish dish
