Are you craving a taste of the Mediterranean? Look no further than this delightful baked cod recipe, bursting with the vibrant flavors of sun-kissed tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, and aromatic herbs. Imagine tender, flaky cod fillets nestled in a beautiful medley of flavors, all coming together in a dish that transports you straight to the coastal regions of the Mediterranean.
This recipe is a true celebration of simplicity and freshness. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-worthy meal that is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a flavor-packed dinner, this baked cod is sure to become a new favorite in your repertoire.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the star of the show – the cod. This lean and mild-flavored fish is a fantastic canvas for the bold Mediterranean flavors we’re about to introduce. Its delicate texture and ability to absorb flavors make it the perfect choice for this dish.
To start, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cod fillets
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Once you have all your ingredients ready, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
In a bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
Spoon the tomato-olive mixture over the cod fillets, making sure each fillet is generously covered with the delicious medley of flavors. Gently press the mixture onto the fish to help it adhere.
Bake the cod in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your cod fillets, so keep an eye on them.
Once the cod is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, alongside your favorite sides like roasted potatoes, a crisp green salad, or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of flavors – the tender cod mingles with the burst of sweet tomatoes, the briny olives add a savory depth, and the aromatic garlic and oregano tie everything together in a Mediterranean symphony. This dish is a true feast for the senses, transporting you to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean with every forkful.