Embrace the vibrant and wholesome flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy baked fish recipe. Perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner, this dish combines fresh fish fillets with aromatic herbs and a medley of vegetables. The result is a succulent and flavorful meal that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Let’s explore how to make this delightful and healthful dish!
Ingredients
Fish Fillets:
- 2 fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut)
- 6 sprigs thyme, chopped
- 3 sprigs rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons parsley, chopped or dried
- 4 garlic cloves, minced or chopped (or 2 teaspoons paste)
- 1 teaspoon basil, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup olive oil
For The Veggies:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- ½ cup olives, pitted
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the chopped thyme, rosemary, dried oregano, parsley, minced garlic, basil (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, sweet chili sauce, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Stir thoroughly to blend into a fragrant marinade.
- Marinate the Fish: Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the fillets are evenly coated. Wrap the dish in plastic and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Oven: While the fish is marinating, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, diced onion, and diced zucchini. Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Assemble the Dish: Remove the fish fillets from the marinade and place them on top of the vegetable mixture in the baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the vegetables and fish.
- Bake the Fish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Mediterranean baked fish with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice or couscous to soak up the delicious juices.
Conclusion
This easy Mediterranean baked fish recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal with minimal effort. The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and sweet chili sauce enhances the natural taste of the fish, while the vibrant vegetables add color and nutrition to the dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and savor the delightful flavors of the Mediterranean!