Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe

– 4 white fish fillets (such as sea bass, cod, tilapia, or snapper)
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 lemon, thinly sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup white wine or vegetable broth (optional, for extra flavor)
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

### Step-by-Step Instructions for Mediterranean Baked Fish:

#### 1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures the fish bakes quickly, while the vegetables and seasonings create a fragrant, caramelized crust.

#### 2. **Prepare the Fish:**
Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps ensure that the fish doesn’t release too much moisture during cooking, which can affect the texture. Season both sides of the fish with salt, pepper, and half of the dried oregano and thyme.

#### 3. **Prepare the Baking Dish:**
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. You can also line the dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Arrange the seasoned fish fillets in a single layer in the dish, ensuring that there’s a bit of space between them.

#### 4. **Top with Mediterranean Ingredients:**
In a mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, minced garlic, and fresh parsley. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the mixture and toss to coat. Scatter this mixture evenly over and around the fish fillets, adding the lemon slices on top of the fish for extra citrusy flavor.

#### 5. **Add the Wine or Broth (Optional):**
For extra flavor, you can pour a little white wine or vegetable broth into the bottom of the baking dish. This creates steam and moisture during baking, which helps the fish cook perfectly while infusing the dish with a delicate aroma. This step is optional but highly recommended for a rich, savory flavor.

#### 6. **Bake the Fish:**
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fish fillets, so check for doneness by gently flaking the fish at the thickest part.

The fish should be opaque and tender, with the vegetables slightly softened and caramelized. If you prefer a more golden and crispy texture, you can broil the fish for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.

#### 7. **Serve and Garnish:**
Once the fish is ready, remove it from the oven and serve it immediately. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness and flavor.

Serve with your choice of sides, such as a fresh Mediterranean salad, couscous, roasted vegetables, or some crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

### Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Baked Fish:

– **Choose Fresh Fish:** For the best results, choose fresh, high-quality fish fillets. Fresh fish will cook more evenly and provide a more delicate flavor. If possible, buy fish from a trusted seafood market or ask your local grocer for advice on selecting the freshest fillets.

– **Don’t Overcook the Fish:** Fish can quickly become dry if overcooked. Keep an eye on the fish as it bakes and check for doneness at the 15-minute mark. The fish should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in color.

– **Use a Variety of Vegetables:** While the recipe calls for cherry tomatoes and olives, you can easily add other Mediterranean vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions. These will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

– **Add Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs like basil, mint, or thyme can add even more flavor to the dish. Sprinkle some on top just before serving for an aromatic touch.

– **Make It Spicy:** If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the fish and vegetable mixture before baking. The heat from the red pepper will complement the richness of the fish and olives.

### Why Mediterranean Baked Fish is So Special

This Mediterranean Baked Fish recipe combines the best of the Mediterranean diet—fresh fish, healthy fats from olive oil, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs—all cooked together to create a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. The bright citrus flavors from the lemon, the savory depth of the olives, and the sweetness of the tomatoes all work together to elevate the fish, making each bite a delightful experience.

The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that feels elegant yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that can be customized based on what’s in season or what you have in your pantry.

### Conclusion

*Mediterranean Baked Fish* is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking for a lighter, satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to please. With its blend of fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and simple preparation, it’s a perfect addition to your weeknight repertoire or a special dish for entertaining guests.

So, fire up your oven, grab your favorite fish fillets, and get ready to enjoy the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean!