Name: Healthy Mediterranean Baked Cod
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485688H10M50S
Total time: PT-485688H10M50S
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

A simple, flavorful baked cod dish infused with Mediterranean herbs, fresh tomatoes, olives, and a touch of lemon, perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 lemon (zested and juiced)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Place the cod fillets in a baking dish and pour the olive oil mixture evenly over them.

Scatter the cherry tomatoes, olives, and red onion around and on top of the fillets.

Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cod flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time takes around 18 minutes, so the total time is just under 30 minutes — perfect for a quick, healthy dinner.

Variations

I like to switch things up sometimes by adding capers for a bit of tang or swapping Kalamata olives for green olives for a milder taste. You can also toss in some spinach or zucchini slices for extra veggies. For a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes works well. If fresh herbs are available, fresh oregano and thyme add a lovely aroma instead of dried.

Storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I gently warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the fish moist and prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the texture can get rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! I’ve used halibut, sea bass, or even salmon when I didn’t have cod on hand. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on thickness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this baked cod recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it great if I’m avoiding gluten.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

I prefer to prepare the olive oil and herb mixture ahead, but I bake the cod fresh for the best texture and flavor.

What side dishes pair well with Mediterranean baked cod?

I like serving it with quinoa, couscous, or a simple green salad. Roasted vegetables also make a nice complement.

Can I freeze leftovers?

I don’t recommend freezing cooked fish as it can alter the texture. It’s best to enjoy leftovers within a couple of days refrigerated.

Conclusion

This Healthy Mediterranean Baked Cod has become one of my go-to meals when I want something wholesome, easy, and full of flavor. It’s a beautiful way to enjoy fish without complicated prep, and the Mediterranean herbs and fresh ingredients bring a wonderful brightness to the plate. Whether I’m cooking for family or just myself, this dish always hits the spot.