Name: Mediterranean Baked White Fish with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 ½ lb white fish fillet such as cod or halibut, 1 to 1 ½ inch thickness; Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste; Extra virgin olive oil, for brushing and drizzling (approximately 4 tablespoons total); Juice of ½ lemon (more for serving); 8 ounces cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 ounces pitted olives, halved (combination of kalamata and green olives); 3 tablespoons minced red onion; 4 to 5 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; Pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 48 reviews

If you love vibrant, fresh flavors that transport you straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean, then this Mediterranean Baked White Fish with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Picture tender white fish, perfectly baked and topped with a colorful, zesty medley of juicy tomatoes, briny olives, fragrant garlic, and bright herbs. It’s a quick, effortless dinner that bursts with the kind of irresistible flavors that make you want to savor every bite—plus, it’s healthy and satisfying all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A raw white fish fillet sits in the middle of a white rectangular baking dish with handles, showing its pale pink and white smooth texture and faint lines. To the left, a white bowl holds bright red halved cherry tomatoes, while below it, another white bowl contains mixed black and green olives, showing their shiny, smooth skins. Fresh green sprigs of thyme and a bulb of garlic are placed nearby. On the right side, a small white bowl with dried green herbs, a whole yellow lemon, and a half of purple onion with clear layers are arranged on a bright white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, fresh ingredients come together in this recipe to create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Each one plays an essential role, from the flaky white fish that forms the base, to the vibrant tomatoes and olives adding bursts of color and flavor. Let’s break down what you’ll need:

White fish fillet (1 ½ lb): Choose a firm variety like cod or halibut, about 1 to 1 ½ inches thick for perfect baking.
Kosher salt and ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the fresh flavors.
Extra virgin olive oil: Adds silky richness and helps bring all the ingredients together.
Juice of ½ lemon: Brightens the entire dish with a touch of acidity and freshness.
Cherry tomatoes (8 ounces): Halved for a juicy pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
Pitted olives (3 ounces): A mix of kalamata and green olives adds briny depth and texture.
Minced red onion (3 tablespoons): Offers a mild sharpness and lovely crunch.
Minced garlic (4 to 5 cloves): Infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean warmth and aroma.
Fresh thyme leaves (1 tablespoon): Adds earthy, herbal notes that complement the fish beautifully.
Dried oregano (2 teaspoons): A quintessential Mediterranean herb that ties all the flavors together.

How to Make Mediterranean Baked White Fish with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Fish

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F to get it nice and hot, perfect for baking the fish evenly and quickly. Pat your white fish fillet dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper. This simple seasoning lets the fish’s natural flavor shine through. Lightly brush your baking dish with extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking, then lay the fish inside. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the fish to add a fresh zing that will mellow as it bakes.

Step 2: Make the Tomato and Olive Mixture

In a medium bowl, toss together the halved cherry tomatoes, pitted olives, minced red onions, garlic, fresh thyme leaves, and dried oregano. Add a very small pinch of salt and pepper to balance the flavors. Drizzle about three tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over the mixture—this is the magic that brings everything together in that lovely Mediterranean way. Give everything a gentle toss to combine the ingredients well and coat them evenly.

Step 3: Top the Fish and Bake

Pour the vibrant tomato and olive mixture right over the white fish, spreading it out so the flavors can mingle as the fish bakes. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on how thick your fillets are. Keep an eye on the fish—the flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s perfectly cooked. This is one of those simple, fuss-free recipes where the oven does most of the work!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a minute or two before serving. The bubbling juices, the sweet tomatoes, and the salty olives combine to create a delicious, aromatic topping that perfectly complements the tender fish beneath. Don’t forget to squeeze a little more fresh lemon juice over the top right before serving for an added bright finish.

How to Serve Mediterranean Baked White Fish with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish with a cooked white fish fillet at the bottom, covered by a thick layer of halved red cherry tomatoes and small pieces of purple onions scattered on top. Among the tomatoes and onions are black and green olives, adding dark and muted green colors. The entire dish is bathed in a yellow olive oil sauce that has some visible herbs and spices. The edges of the fish and the sides of the dish show some light brown marks from cooking. The baking dish rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs are your best friend here. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top for a burst of green and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the warm baked fish. A few lemon wedges on the side invite your guests to add extra zest to every bite.

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside simple, wholesome sides that won’t overpower the Mediterranean flavors. Try serving it with fluffy couscous, herbed quinoa, or a light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans also add wonderful texture and color.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, plate individual servings topped with the tomato and olive mixture overflowing slightly onto the plate. Drizzle a little extra olive oil around for sheen and a touch of sparkle. For a rustic vibe, serve the fish family-style right from the baking dish, letting everyone dig in and share the vibrant goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The freshness of the fish and the tomato topping will keep nicely for up to two days, making it an easy next-day lunch or quick dinner.

Freezing

While this is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover cooked fish for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind that freezing might change the texture of the tomatoes, so it’s best to freeze the fish separately if possible.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the fish gently in the oven at 300 degrees F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This helps preserve the flaky texture without drying it out. Avoid using the microwave, which can make the fish rubbery.

FAQs

What types of white fish work best in this recipe?

Firm, mild-flavored white fish like cod, halibut, or sea bass are ideal because they hold up well during baking and absorb the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! The Mediterranean Baked White Fish with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for a variety of dietary needs without any modifications.

Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the tomato and olive mixture a few hours in advance, but it’s best to add it to the fish and bake just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme?

No worries! You can substitute dried thyme, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Or swap with fresh oregano or rosemary for a slightly different Mediterranean twist.

Can this dish be made dairy-free?

Yes, it’s naturally dairy-free—there’s no cheese or cream here, just healthy olive oil and fresh ingredients that make the flavors shine on their own.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s quick, nutritious, and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, the Mediterranean Baked White Fish with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe is a total winner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or anytime you want a dinner that feels special without the fuss. Give this recipe a try—I promise it’ll find a regular spot on your dinner rotation!

Mediterranean Baked White Fish with Tomatoes and Olives Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need