If you’re after a weeknight dinner with major Mediterranean flair and fresh, garden-bright flavors, this Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes is about to become your go-to. Imagine tender cod fillets nestled beneath a tumble of juicy cherry tomatoes, briny olives, and capers, all roasted to irresistible perfection in a pool of herby olive oil and zesty lemon. It’s healthy and incredibly easy, yet looks and tastes like it came from a seaside café. Best of all, cleanup is a breeze, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time basking in the compliments.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the magical things about Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes is just how few ingredients you need for such spectacular results. Each one is carefully chosen to enhance the fish and create layer after layer of flavor and color on your plate.
- Cod Fillets: Mild and flaky, cod is perfect for soaking up all those Mediterranean flavors; be sure to use fresh or fully thawed fillets for best results.
- Olive Oil: A generous drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil lends richness and helps everything roast beautifully together.
- Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with sweetness and juice as they cook, creating a succulent sauce for the fish.
- Kalamata Olives: Their salty, bold presence contrasts beautifully with the delicate fish and bright tomatoes.
- Capers: Little pops of tanginess that really bring the Mediterranean spirit alive in every bite.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic gives this dish its signature aromatic depth.
- Dried Oregano: Adds a whiff of sunshine and herby, savory character—so classic for Mediterranean dishes.
- Lemon Juice: The brightness of lemon wakes up all the flavors and keeps things feeling fresh and lively.
- Salt and Black Pepper: A touch of seasoning to tie everything together and balance the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped just before serving, parsley adds color and a fresh, peppery lift as garnish.
How to Make Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and give it a few minutes to come up to temperature. Meanwhile, lightly oil a baking dish that’s big enough to hold all your fillets in a single layer—this ensures every piece of cod cooks evenly and soaks up those lovely juices from the toppings.
Step 2: Arrange the Cod Fillets
Lay the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Pat them dry with a paper towel for the perfect flaky finish. If you see any thin ends, you can tuck them under so all the pieces cook at the same pace. Season lightly with salt and pepper to give the fish a head start on flavor.
Step 3: Make the Mediterranean Topping
Grab a medium bowl and mix together the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, drained capers, minced garlic, and dried oregano. Drizzle in the olive oil and squeeze in the fresh lemon juice, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir—the tomatoes will start to glisten and the aromatics will smell wonderful.
Step 4: Spoon, Scatter, and Season
Spoon the tomato-olive mixture evenly over and around the cod fillets. Try to get some of the vibrant topping on each one, so every bite is bursting with Mediterranean flavor. The juices from the mix will bubble up as the dish bakes, mingling perfectly with the tender fish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking dish into your hot oven and let the magic happen for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cod turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the tomatoes have started to collapse into a colorful sauce. Don’t overbake—cod cooks quickly and you want it just set and succulent.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
As soon as it comes out of the oven, sprinkle a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley over the top for a final burst of freshness and color. Your Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes is ready to light up the dinner table!
How to Serve Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes
Garnishes
For the prettiest and tastiest finishing touch, go with a shower of fresh parsley over the hot dish. If you want extra Mediterranean flair, try a few crumbles of feta cheese or a tiny drizzle of balsamic reduction just before serving—each adds a wonderful pop of flavor that complements the tomatoes and olives.
Side Dishes
This bright, saucy cod absolutely loves a simple sidekick to help soak up its juices. Thick slices of crusty bread are a classic, but fluffy rice or tender couscous work beautifully too. For a low-carb option, roasted cauliflower or a pile of lemony sautéed greens make satisfying, healthy partners.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner-party-worthy twist, serve each cod fillet atop a bed of creamy hummus or a swirl of Greek yogurt. Layer the fish and toppings in shallow bowls for a modern, rustic look, or serve with grilled vegetables scattered with extra capers and herbs for a showstopping one-pan meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors continue to develop, and the topping makes a fantastic cold salad spooned over greens or sliced baguette for lunch.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze this dish if needed. Let it cool completely, then pack the fish and tomato mixture in airtight, freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, knowing that the texture of the tomatoes may soften further when thawed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm gently in a covered ovenproof dish at 325°F (165°C) until just heated through—about 10 minutes. For the best texture, avoid microwaving directly, as it can make the cod rubbery. Reheat the topping and fish together so everything stays moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While cod is mild and flaky, this recipe works just as wonderfully with haddock, halibut, or any other firm white fish fillets you enjoy. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thinner fillets may cook a little faster.
Is Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes gluten-free?
Yes, the natural ingredient list makes it completely gluten-free, as long as you’re careful to serve with gluten-free sides if needed. It’s also dairy-free and low in carbs, making it great for a variety of diets.
Can I prepare the tomato mixture in advance?
Definitely! You can combine the cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, oregano, and olive oil up to a day ahead—just keep it in the fridge tightly covered. Add the lemon juice just before baking for the freshest flavor.
What are the best tomatoes for this dish?
Sweet, ripe cherry tomatoes are ideal, but grape tomatoes also work beautifully. In a pinch, chopped Roma or heirloom tomatoes will get the job done, though try to seed them first for a less watery sauce.
How do I know when the cod is done?
The cod is perfectly baked when it turns opaque and easily flakes when you gently press it with a fork. Overbaked cod can become dry, so check it at the 15-minute mark and add a couple more minutes only if needed.
Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes: Final Thoughts
Once you try Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes, you’ll wonder how you ever did without it. It’s a recipe that brings all the sun-drenched, sea-splashed joy of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen, with minimal fuss. Give it a go next time you crave something easy, beautiful, and deeply satisfying—your dinner table (and taste buds) will thank you!
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Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Mediterranean Cod with Cherry Tomatoes recipe is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prepare. The combination of tender cod fillets with flavorful cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers creates a Mediterranean-inspired meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Cod Fillets:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 ounces each)
Tomato Mixture:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- juice of 1 lemon
- salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish:
- fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the cod: Place the cod fillets in a lightly oiled baking dish.
- Make the tomato mixture: In a medium bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, garlic, oregano, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bake: Spoon the tomato mixture over and around the cod fillets. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the cod is opaque and flakes easily.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with your choice of accompaniment.
Notes
- This dish can be made with other white fish such as haddock or halibut.
- For added flavor, consider topping with crumbled feta or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cod fillet with tomato topping
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 570 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
