Mediterranean Baked Fish Recipe

If you’ve been craving a dinner that’s effortlessly elegant yet packed with bold, fresh flavors, this Mediterranean Baked Fish is your new go-to recipe. With flaky haddock nestled among plump tomatoes, briny olives, and a hint of heat from jalapeños and chili flakes, every bite is a celebration of sun-soaked coastal cuisine. Whether you’re planning a weeknight escape or impressing guests, this dish brings the charm of the Mediterranean right to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mediterranean Baked Fish recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with ingredients that each play a starring role. From ripe tomatoes that burst as they bake, to fresh thyme and olive oil that infuse the whole dish with fragrance, you’ll taste the layers in every forkful.

• Olive oil (1/3 cup): This lush, golden oil sets the base for the sauce and infuses all the ingredients with Mediterranean richness.
• Garlic cloves, sliced (4): Sliced garlic gives the dish a warm, savory backbone without overpowering it—don’t be tempted to skip!
• Fresh thyme sprigs (6): Their woodsy, floral notes add depth and an aroma that fills your kitchen as the fish bakes.
• Baby tomatoes, whole (1 1/2 cups): These lend a juicy pop of sweetness and beautiful color contrast to the finished dish.
• Haddock fillets (4 pieces): Mild and flaky, haddock is ideal for soaking up all these punchy Mediterranean flavors.
• Salt and pepper (1/4 teaspoon each): Essential for seasoning the fish perfectly—be generous!
• Chili flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Add these if you enjoy a gentle heat that tingles alongside the briny flavors.
• Mezzetta olives (1 cup, any variety): Use your favorite kind or a mix; their salty, briny pop is irresistible with the fish.
• Mezzetta sliced jalapeños (1/4 cup): For tang and a touch of heat, these jarred peppers add an unexpected twist.
• Mezzetta capers (2 teaspoons, drained): These tiny bursts of briny flavor make the whole dish come alive.

How to Make Mediterranean Baked Fish

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 450 degrees F. Pop your baking dish in while it preheats—this ensures that when the ingredients hit that hot oil, you get instant sizzle and an extra layer of flavor infused right from the beginning.

Step 2: Season the Fish

While your dish is heating, pat your haddock fillets dry and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and those zingy chili flakes if you like a touch of warmth. This simple seasoning helps bring out the natural flavors of the fish and gives the Mediterranean Baked Fish its signature taste.

Step 3: Layer in the Aromatics and Fish

When your baking dish is ready (about 6–8 minutes in the oven), quickly but carefully pour in your garlic slices and half of the thyme sprigs. Toss in the whole baby tomatoes and then nestle the seasoned haddock fillets right into this fragrant bed. Scatter the Mezzetta olives all around, letting their briny flavor mingle with everything else.

Step 4: Add Jalapeños and Capers

Now, it’s time for a punch of pizazz: sprinkle the Mezzetta sliced jalapeños and capers over the fish and veggies. These additions give the Mediterranean Baked Fish a lively, tangy note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the rich olive oil.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Reduce your oven temperature to 375 degrees F. Slide the dish back in and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The fish should be just cooked through and the tomatoes will have begun to burst, creating a luscious, aromatic sauce all around.

Step 6: Broil for a Finishing Touch

If you love a little golden color on your fish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes. Watch carefully—this step gives your fillets that gorgeous, charred appearance and intensifies the roasted flavors across the top.

Step 7: Finishing and Serving

Once the fish is out of the oven, immediately drizzle some of the sizzling, flavorful olive oil from the dish right over the top. Garnish with the remaining fresh thyme sprigs and get ready for a Mediterranean Baked Fish that smells just as good as it looks!

How to Serve Mediterranean Baked Fish

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of fresh thyme or even a little reserved fresh parsley adds freshness and a burst of color right before serving. For a beautiful finish, a few extra capers or a drizzle of fruity olive oil brighten both the plate and the palate.

Side Dishes

This Mediterranean Baked Fish is a star on its own but truly sings alongside simple sides. A fluffy pile of couscous or a mound of lemony rice soaks up that beautiful sauce. For a lighter touch, try a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil or some roasted asparagus tossed on the baking tray during the last few minutes.

Creative Ways to Present

Let guests serve themselves straight from the bubbling dish for a rustic, family-style feel, or portion out each fillet with a colorful scoop of the olive-tomato mixture on top. For an elegant dinner, place the fish atop a bed of herbed quinoa, then spoon the juices around the edge for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Mediterranean Baked Fish, allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to two days—this dish holds up surprisingly well and even develops more flavor as it rests.

Freezing

While fish can be tricky to freeze without sacrificing texture, you can freeze Mediterranean Baked Fish in a pinch. Tightly wrap the cooled fillets individually with plastic wrap, place them in a freezer bag, and store for up to one month. Reheat gently for best results and be aware the tomatoes may soften further.

Reheating

For the best flavor and texture, reheat leftovers in a 325 degree F oven until just warmed through, about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can overcook the delicate fish. Reheat with a sprinkle of water or a splash of olive oil to keep things moist and succulent.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish for Mediterranean Baked Fish?

Absolutely! While haddock keeps things light and flaky, cod, halibut, or even snapper are excellent choices. Just adjust the baking time if you use thicker or thinner fillets.

Is this dish spicy with the chili flakes and jalapeños?

The heat is subtle and balanced by the sweetness of the tomatoes and richness of the olive oil. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can omit the chili flakes or use fewer jalapeños—customize it to your family’s taste.

Can I prepare Mediterranean Baked Fish ahead of time?

You can prep all your ingredients and even season the fish ahead of time. When you’re ready to bake, assemble everything in the hot dish and cook right before serving for peak freshness and flavor.

What makes this Mediterranean Baked Fish so flavorful?

It’s all about the combination of briny olives, fresh tomatoes, aromatic thyme, and a generous pour of quality olive oil. The fast, hot bake locks all those flavors together and keeps the fish moist and tender.

Do I need to cover the fish while baking?

Nope! Leaving the dish uncovered allows the tomatoes to roast and the fish to become slightly golden. If you prefer even more moisture, you can loosely tent with foil, but it’s not necessary for delicious results.

Final Thoughts

Bring a little sunshine to your dinner table and treat yourself to the simple pleasure of Mediterranean Baked Fish. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with dazzling flavors that will transport you to a bustling seaside café—no passport required. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your kitchen!

Print