Craving a healthy and delicious weeknight meal? This baked cod with cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives is a fantastic mediterranean dinner recipe that’s both flavorful and easy to make. You’ll love how quickly this simple dish comes together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cod Fillets: You can use other flaky white fish like halibut or tilapia.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes work just as well.
- Kalamata Olives: Green olives or a mix of Mediterranean olives are good alternatives.
- Olive Oil: Essential for flavor and cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs cod fillets, 1-inch thick
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400
- Tools Needed: Baking dish, small bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Dish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This ensures easy cleanup for your mediterranean dinner.
2. Combine the Vegetables and Seasonings
In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, pitted and halved Kalamata olives, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss gently until everything is well coated. This mixture will create a vibrant sauce for your cod.
3. Arrange the Cod and Vegetables
Place the cod fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the tomato and olive mixture around and over the cod. Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the fish and vegetables.
4. Bake Until Cooked Through
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. You’ll have a perfectly cooked mediterranean dinner.
5. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like, and serve immediately with lemon wedges. This healthy and satisfying meal is perfect on its own or with a side of rice or quinoa.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Include thinly sliced red onion with the tomatoes and olives.
- Try adding some fresh basil or thyme for an herbal boost.
- Top with a sprinkle of feta cheese after baking for extra tang.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover baked cod with cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the fish when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can you use frozen cod? Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking to avoid excess moisture.
- What side dishes pair well with this recipe? Roasted potatoes, couscous, or a simple green salad are excellent choices for this mediterranean dinner recipe.
- How do you know when the cod is cooked? The cod will be opaque throughout and will flake easily with a fork.
- Can you prepare this ahead of time? You can prep the vegetable mixture a day in advance, but it’s best to assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest taste.
- Is this recipe spicy? No, this recipe is not spicy. You can add red pepper flakes for a kick if desired.
- Can you use other types of fish? Absolutely, any flaky white fish like halibut, snapper, or tilapia will work well in this mediterranean dinner recipe.