In the world of culinary delights, few dishes evoke a sense of Mediterranean bliss quite like Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives. Imagine tender cod fillets nestled in a savory bath of olives, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, wafting through your kitchen like a fragrant breeze from the coast. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also paints your plate with vibrant colors that scream “eat me.”
Every time I whip up this dish, I’m transported back to sun-soaked summers spent feasting with family by the sea. The laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the aroma of fresh ingredients coming together—these memories are what make cooking so special. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering with friends, Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives promises to bring joy to any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives dish is both quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The robust flavors of olives and herbs create a symphony for your taste buds
- Its eye-catching presentation will impress guests at any dinner party
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with various sides or salads
Whenever I serve this dish, I’m met with delighted gasps and requests for seconds; you’d think I was serving a five-star meal instead of a simple baked cod recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cod Fillets: Choose firm, bright-colored fillets for the best flavor and texture—avoid any fish that looks dull or discolored.
Green Olives: Use pitted green olives for convenience; their briny flavor enhances the overall taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: Look for plump and juicy cherry tomatoes; they add sweetness and color to the dish.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; opt for firm cloves that smell aromatic.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley and Oregano): Fresh herbs elevate the flavor; choose vibrant leaves without wilting.
Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling—it adds richness that complements the fish perfectly.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with these simple steps! Follow along as we transform fresh ingredients into a delightful meal.
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures even cooking and beautifully caramelized edges on your cod.
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This prevents sticking and gives your cod an extra flavorful layer.
Layer Ingredients: Place cod fillets in the center of your baking dish. Surround them with halved cherry tomatoes and scattered green olives. The colors should be vibrant!
Add Aromatics and Seasoning: Mince garlic cloves finely and sprinkle over the cod. Drizzle olive oil generously over everything followed by freshly squeezed lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
Bake It Up!: Pop the dish into your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until the cod flakes easily with a fork and looks delectably golden.
Garnish & Serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and oregano on top for an extra burst of flavor. Serve immediately while still warm!
This delightful Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives offers not just nourishment but also an experience that brings warmth, satisfaction, and perhaps a little dance from happiness!
You Must Know
- Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients
- The vibrant flavors of olives and herbs create a mouthwatering experience, making it perfect for any occasion
- Plus, it’s super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. Season the cod, then layer with olives and tomatoes before baking for 20 minutes. This order ensures the fish remains moist while absorbing all those delightful flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out olives for capers or add a sprinkle of feta cheese. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish further, adding an aromatic touch that’s hard to resist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to keep the cod flaky and avoid drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cod for the best flavor and texture; frozen will work, but may lose some moisture
- Don’t overcrowd your baking dish; give each piece space to breathe and cook evenly
- Pair with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience
Sharing this recipe reminds me of my first dinner party where I nervously served this dish. Everyone went back for seconds! It was a hit, proving that simple can be incredibly satisfying.
FAQ
What type of cod is best for Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives?
Fresh Atlantic or Pacific cod works best due to its mild flavor and flaky texture.
Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, halibut or tilapia are excellent substitutes if you prefer something different.
How do I know when the cod is done cooking?
Cod is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives
Mediterranean Baked Cod Olives is a delightful dish that transports you to sun-soaked shores with every bite. Tender cod fillets are enveloped in a savory blend of briny olives, sweet cherry tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, creating a meal that’s both nourishing and visually enticing. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or elegant gatherings, promising to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 fresh cod fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup pitted green olives
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place the cod fillets in the center of the dish; surround with cherry tomatoes and olives.
- Sprinkle minced garlic over the top; drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cod flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and oregano. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet with vegetables (approx. 275g)
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using capers or crumbled feta cheese as substitutes for olives. Fresh herbs like basil can enhance aroma and taste.
