Simple Mediterranean Baked Cod Recipe

Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Imagine coming home after a long day, craving a healthy, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 40 minutes without a mountain of dishes to clean. That’s the magic of this Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives recipe, a one-pan wonder that brings the fresh, vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean straight to your table. Created by Chef Lalybeth at cookinwithlalyta.com, this baked cod recipe is not only simple and nutritious but also packed with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs for a dish that’s both satisfying and sophisticated. Whether you’re a busy parent or a health-conscious cook, this Mediterranean fish dish solves the common dilemma of preparing a gourmet meal mid-week without the fuss.

The allure of this Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives lies in its irresistible sensory appeal. Picture the tender flakes of cod, perfectly baked to a moist, succulent finish, mingling with the burst of sweet, sun-ripened tomatoes and the tangy punch of olives. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors: the subtle brininess of the olives contrasts beautifully with the fresh acidity of the tomatoes, while hints of garlic and olive oil infuse a warm, earthy aroma that fills your kitchen. The textures are equally enchanting—the fish remains flaky yet firm, the tomatoes soften into a juicy compote, and the olives add a delightful chewiness that keeps every forkful engaging and mouthwatering.

What sets this version of Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives from cookinwithlalyta.com apart is Chef Lalybeth’s expert touch, honed through years of testing and perfecting Mediterranean recipes. This isn’t just another baked cod recipe; it’s a foolproof guide that includes the Chef’s Secret for achieving unparalleled moisture and flavor in every bite. You’ll learn insider tips, common pitfalls to avoid, and creative ways to customize it, making you feel like a pro in the kitchen. Stick around for detailed ingredients spotlights, step-by-step instructions, and FAQs that address all your questions, ensuring your cooking success every time.

Why This Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret: This recipe shines as a true one-pan wonder, where everything bakes together in a single dish for effortless preparation and minimal cleanup. By layering the cod with tomatoes and olives right in the baking dish, we lock in moisture and flavors, creating a harmonious blend that elevates the dish beyond typical baked cod recipes. This technique allows the natural juices from the tomatoes to infuse the fish, resulting in a dish that’s incredibly flavorful without needing extra steps or ingredients.

Unbeatable Texture: The science behind the texture is all about gentle, even baking at 400°F, which prevents the cod from drying out. The olive oil in the marinade acts as a barrier, retaining the fish’s natural moisture while the tomatoes release steam that circulates in the pan, ensuring flaky, tender results every time. This method contrasts with higher-heat approaches that can toughen the fish, making our Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives reliably juicy and appealing.

Foolproof for a Reason: Tested multiple times in our kitchen, this recipe guarantees success for home cooks of all levels. Its straightforward steps and precise timings mean you won’t overcook the cod, a common issue in Mediterranean fish dishes. With this guide, you’ll achieve perfect results consistently, turning a simple meal into a standout favorite.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

For the cod fillets (1 pound): Fresh cod is the star of this Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives recipe, providing a mild, flaky base that absorbs the vibrant flavors of the other ingredients. Quality matters here—opt for wild-caught cod from sustainable sources to ensure it’s firm and free of any fishy odors, enhancing the overall freshness. If you’re looking for a substitution, try halibut or tilapia, but note that halibut might need a minute less baking time due to its denser texture, while tilapia could make the dish slightly milder.

For the tomatoes (2 sliced): These add a juicy, sweet acidity that balances the brininess of the olives in this baked cod recipe. Choose ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor and texture; they’re packed with vitamins and help create a natural sauce as they bake. Quality vine-ripened or heirloom varieties will elevate your dish, but if fresh ones aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes can substitute—just drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the cod soggy.

For the olives (1/2 cup): Olives bring a bold, tangy depth to this Mediterranean fish dish, adding a signature Mediterranean flair with their rich, savory notes. Select high-quality pitted olives, like Kalamata or green varieties, for the best taste and ease of eating. They not only enhance flavor but also provide healthy fats. If olives aren’t your thing, capers can be a great alternative, offering a similar brininess without overpowering the cod’s delicate taste.

For the olive oil (2 tablespoons, for the marinade): This forms the heart of the marinade in our Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives, infusing the fish with a silky, aromatic base that promotes even cooking. Use extra-virgin olive oil for its superior flavor and antioxidants; it’s key to achieving that authentic Mediterranean essence. A neutral oil like avocado can substitute if needed, but it won’t impart the same fruity notes—adjust quantities to maintain moisture.

For the garlic (1 teaspoon, minced): Garlic adds a pungent, warming aroma that ties all the elements together in this baked cod recipe. Freshly minced garlic ensures the most potent flavor, so avoid pre-chopped versions which can lack intensity. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder works in a pinch, but use half the amount to prevent overwhelming the dish’s delicate balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheating the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and achieving the perfect texture in your Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives. Make sure your oven is fully heated before proceeding, as this helps the fish bake uniformly without drying out.

Pro Tip: Use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature accuracy, as many home ovens run hot or cool, which can affect baking times in Mediterranean fish dishes.

Step 2: Arranging the Cod

Take your 1 pound of cod fillets and arrange them evenly in a single layer in a baking dish. This setup allows the marinade and toppings to coat the fish properly, ensuring every piece absorbs the flavors of the tomatoes and olives in this Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives recipe.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Overcrowding the baking dish can lead to steaming instead of baking, resulting in mushy fish—leave some space between fillets for optimal air circulation and crisping.

Step 3: Topping with Tomatoes and Olives

Evenly top the arranged cod with 2 sliced tomatoes and 1/2 cup of olives. Drizzle the marinade—made from 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon minced garlic, salt, and pepper—over the fish and toppings. This layer locks in moisture and infuses the dish with Mediterranean flavors as it bakes.

Pro Tip: Slice the tomatoes uniformly for even cooking, and mix the olives in with the marinade beforehand to distribute the garlic and oil more effectively, enhancing the overall taste of your baked cod recipe.

Step 4: Baking the Dish

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This step completes the one-pan magic, melding all ingredients into a cohesive, flavorful meal.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Opening the oven door too often can cause temperature fluctuations, leading to uneven cooking—resist the urge to check until the minimum time is up for the best results in your Mediterranean fish dish.

Serving & Presentation

For an impressive presentation of your Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives, plate the fish on a large serving dish with the tomatoes and olives artfully arranged on top for a colorful, rustic look. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a pop of green and extra aroma, elevating the visual appeal and tying into the Mediterranean theme. Serve immediately while hot to maintain the flaky texture of the cod.

When it comes to complementary sides, opt for light, fresh options that enhance the healthy profile of this baked cod recipe. A simple quinoa salad or a crisp Greek salad pairs beautifully, providing a balance of grains, veggies, and acidity. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or whole-grain rice can absorb the flavorful juices, making your Mediterranean fish dish feel complete and satisfying.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions

Make-Ahead Strategy: To prep this Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives up to 3 days in advance, slice the tomatoes and olives and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Prepare the marinade separately and combine it with the cod fillets in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate. This allows you to assemble and bake quickly on the day of serving, preserving the fresh flavors.

Storing Leftovers: Cool any leftovers completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness, or freeze for up to 1 month—wrap portions individually for easy thawing. This method keeps the cod moist and prevents it from absorbing odors in the fridge.

The Best Way to Reheat: For optimal texture, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery; instead, this gentle reheating restores the original flakiness and flavors of your baked cod recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives

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• Author: Chef Lalybeth
• Total Time: 35 mins
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

A flavorful and healthy dish featuring cod baked with tomatoes, olives, and herbs.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound cod fillets
• 2 tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup olives
• For the marinade: 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Arrange cod in a baking dish.
3. Top with tomatoes and olives.
4. Bake for 20 minutes.

Notes

Serve with rice or salad.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Method: Main
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 20g