If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and bursting with sunshine flavors, the Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish perfectly balances tender, flaky fish with the tangy sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the briny pop of olives, all infused with fragrant Mediterranean herbs and a hint of zesty lemon. It’s a simple yet stunning meal that brings the warmth of the Mediterranean coast right to your kitchen, ideal for a cozy dinner or impressing friends with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, creating a melody of flavors and textures that makes this dish truly special. From fresh herbs to the juicy bursts of cherry tomatoes, each element adds its own charm, making the cooking process feel like a delightful journey toward a wholesome, colorful meal.
- 2 Fish fillets: Choose your favorite white fish for a mild, flaky base that soaks up the marinade beautifully.
- 6 sprigs Thyme, chopped: Adds an earthy, lemony aroma that complements seafood perfectly.
- 3 sprigs Rosemary, chopped: Brings a piney, fragrant touch that brightens the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon Oregano, dried: Classic Mediterranean herb that enhances herbal depth.
- 2 teaspoon Parsley, chopped or dried: Freshens up the flavor profile with its vibrant, grassy notes.
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced or chopped or 2 teaspoon paste: Imparts a warm, savory kick that’s essential in Mediterranean cooking.
- 1 teaspoon Basil, chopped (optional): Adds a sweet, slightly peppery layer and lovely color contrast.
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest: Packs a citrusy punch that brightens every bite.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice: Injects fresh acidity to balance flavors and tenderize the fish.
- 1 tablespoon Sweet chilli sauce: Gives a gentle heat with a hint of sweetness, creating a beautiful glaze.
- ½ teaspoon Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper: Adds just enough sharpness without overpowering.
- ¼ cup Olive oil: The foundation of Mediterranean cuisine, giving richness and helping everything roast beautifully.
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes: These little bursts of sweetness soften and caramelize in the oven for amazing flavor.
- ½ cup Olives, pitted: Bring a briny, salty pop that adds depth and character.
- 1 medium Onion, diced: Sweetens and softens, enriching the dish with gentle texture.
- 1 Zucchini, diced: Adds mild earthiness and a tender bite that balances the tomatoes.
How to Make Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease or line a baking dish. This step ensures your fish and veggies won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and allowing the ingredients to cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped thyme, rosemary, oregano, parsley, garlic, basil (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, sweet chili sauce, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. This aromatic marinade is nothing short of liquid gold—it will infuse your fish with the bold, fresh flavors that define this Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe.
Step 3: Marinate the Fish
Rub the marinade generously over both sides of each fish fillet. This step is crucial because it locks in moisture and layers the fish with vibrant herbal and citrus notes that make every bite a delight.
Step 4: Coat the Vegetables
Take the remaining marinade in the bowl and toss your cherry tomatoes, olives, diced onion, and zucchini in it. Give everything a good mix so the veggies are cloaked in that flavorful blend, which will help them roast beautifully and complement the fish perfectly.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake
Pour the veggies into your prepared baking dish and place the marinated fish fillets on top. This layering keeps the fish tender while ensuring the vegetables roast until they’re juicy and slightly caramelized. Bake everything in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for 5 minutes. This little pause allows the juices to settle, ensuring every bite is succulent and packed with flavor, completing your Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe experience.
How to Serve Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few lemon wedges adds a bright finishing touch. You can also drizzle a little extra olive oil or scatter some toasted pine nuts for an added crunch and richness. These simple garnishes elevate your presentation and enhance the fresh Mediterranean vibe.
Side Dishes
This fish dish shines beautifully alongside fluffy couscous, herbed rice, or a light green salad. If you want to keep it low-carb, roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans pair perfectly, balancing the richness of the fish and the bold flavors of the olives and tomatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or spread a layer of hummus on the plate first to add a silky texture contrast. You could also serve it family-style in the baking dish to keep the rustic, homey feel that makes Mediterranean meals so inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal, though the fish is best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
It’s best not to freeze this dish because the texture of cooked fish and vegetables can suffer after freezing and thawing. However, you can freeze the marinade separately for up to 3 months to make your next Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe even quicker.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to avoid drying out the fish. Cover it with foil to retain moisture, and warm until just heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the fish tender and the veggies vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! White flaky fish such as cod, haddock, or tilapia work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking time depending on the thickness of your fillets.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs, or can I use dried?
While fresh herbs provide brighter flavor, dried herbs can be used in a pinch. If substituting dried for fresh, use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses fresh ingredients and no wheat-based products. Just double-check any packaged ingredients like sweet chili sauce for hidden gluten.
What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce if I don’t have any?
You can mix a little honey or maple syrup with a dash of chili flakes or a mild hot sauce for a similar sweet-spicy glaze that makes this recipe so special.
How can I tell when the fish is perfectly cooked?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Cooking time varies, but usually around 15 minutes at 400°F is perfect for average fillets.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a meal that feels both effortless and impressive, and the Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe fits that bill perfectly. It’s a vibrant, fresh, and utterly delicious way to bring a touch of Mediterranean sunshine to your table any day of the week. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes to enjoy and share with loved ones.
Print
Mediterranean Baked Fish with Cherry Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful Mediterranean Baked Fish recipe featuring fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and sweet chili sauce, combined with vibrant vegetables and olives, all baked to perfection in the oven. This dish offers a healthy and delicious way to enjoy fish, bursting with aromatic Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
Fish and Marinade
- 2 Fish fillets
- 6 sprigs Thyme, chopped
- 3 sprigs Rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Oregano, dried
- 2 teaspoon Parsley, chopped or dried
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced or 2 teaspoons garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Sweet chilli sauce
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- ¼ cup Olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup Olives, pitted
- 1 medium Onion, diced
- 1 Zucchini, diced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400℉ (204℃) and lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine chopped thyme, rosemary, dried oregano, parsley, minced garlic, chopped basil (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, sweet chili sauce, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly to create a fragrant marinade.
- Marinate the Fish: Rub the marinade generously on both sides of the fish fillets, ensuring they are well coated for maximum flavor infusion.
- Coat the Vegetables: Add the cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, diced onion, and diced zucchini to the remaining marinade in the bowl. Toss the vegetables until evenly coated with the marinade.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the marinated vegetables into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Place the marinated fish fillets on top of the vegetables.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake at 400℉ (204℃) for about 15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the fish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Serve warm for a delicious and healthy Mediterranean meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the fish fillets with other white fish such as cod, haddock, or sea bass.
- Adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce to your preferred sweetness and spice level.
- Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried if fresh are not available, but reduce the quantity slightly as dried herbs are more potent.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or over cooked quinoa or rice for a more filling meal.
- Ensure fish is fresh and cooked to an internal temperature of 145℉ (63℃) for food safety.
