Mediterranean Baked Cod with Olives
A flavorful and visually stunning dish featuring flaky cod paired with olives, tomatoes, and garlic, drizzled with olive oil, perfect for any dinner occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 fillets Cod Fillets, skinless and boneless, about 6 ounces each Provides a lean and flaky protein base.
- 1 cup Kalamata Olives, pitted and halved Adds a briny and rich flavor characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
- 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes, halved Contributes sweetness and acidity.
- 1 medium Red Onion, thinly sliced Provides a mild pungency that mellows as it bakes.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses the dish with its aromatic essence.
- 2 tablespoons Capers, drained Provides a tangy, salty, and slightly lemony flavor.
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil, extra virgin Enhances all the ingredients with healthy fats.
- 2 teaspoons Dried Oregano A quintessential Mediterranean herb.
- 1 large Fresh Lemon, zested and juiced Adds bright citrusy notes and balances flavors.
- to taste Salt and Black Pepper Enhances flavors.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adds color and freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
- Thinly slice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, mince the garlic, pit and halve the Kalamata olives, and drain the capers.
Arranging Ingredients
- Spread the sliced red onion at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Scatter halved cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives over the onions, then distribute minced garlic and drained capers.
Seasoning
- Drizzle half of the olive oil over the vegetable mix, sprinkle dried oregano and season with salt and black pepper.
- Toss the vegetables gently to coat.
Preparing Cod
- Pat the cod fillets dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Arrange seasoned cod fillets on top of the vegetables.
Baking
- Drizzle remaining olive oil and sprinkle lemon zest over the cod.
- Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until cod is cooked through.
Finishing Touches
- Squeeze juice from half a lemon over the dish and garnish with parsley before serving.
Serving
- Serve immediately, ensuring each serving includes vegetables and sauce.
Notes
Choose fresh cod fillets. You can substitute white fish like haddock or halibut. Optional vegetables include bell peppers or zucchini.