Mediterranean Baked Cod With Tomatoes

Name: Mediterranean Baked Cod With Tomatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cod fillets; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Dish Collection

I absolutely love preparing Mediterranean Baked Cod With Tomatoes because it’s a quick yet flavorful dish that transports me to the beautiful coasts of Greece. The combination of fresh ingredients, such as vibrant tomatoes and fragrant herbs, meld beautifully with the tender cod. It’s an effortless way to enjoy a light meal that’s both satisfying and healthy, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. With just a few simple steps, you can have a Mediterranean feast on your table in no time!

Created by

Megan Douglas

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:33:36.465Z

When I first tried Mediterranean Baked Cod With Tomatoes, I was surprised by how simple yet delicious it was. The key to this dish is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. I remember the first time I tasted it; the juicy tomatoes and tender fish combined so well with the aromatic herbs. It’s remarkable how just a sprinkle of garlic and a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the flavors!

Over the years, I've refined my technique, ensuring that the cod stays moist while getting a beautiful top that’s slightly crisp. A crucial tip I learned is to let the tomatoes roast for a few minutes before adding the fish. This little step creates an irresistible sauce that perfectly complements the cod.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh and vibrant Mediterranean flavors in every bite
Light and healthy without sacrificing taste
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is obviously the cod fillets. Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that cooks beautifully, holding its shape well during the baking process. When selecting cod, look for fillets that are firm and have a bright, moist appearance. Frozen cod can be a great substitute; just be sure to thaw it completely before baking to ensure even cooking.

The cherry tomatoes not only add sweetness but also provide moisture that enhances the flavor of the cod. Their vibrant color contributes to the dish’s visual appeal. If cherry tomatoes are out of season, grape tomatoes or even diced larger tomatoes can work in a pinch, but you may need to adjust the cooking time for larger varieties to ensure they both soften properly and contribute juiciness.

Baking Techniques

One crucial technique in this recipe is pre-roasting the tomatoes. By cooking them before adding the cod, you develop concentrated flavors and avoid a watery dish. Keep an eye on the tomatoes during the initial baking; you'll want them to become slightly blistered and tender, which usually takes around 10 minutes at 400°F. This step also allows for the garlic and herbs to infuse their essence into the tomatoes, creating a flavorful base for the fish.

When placing the cod atop the roasted tomatoes, ensure it's evenly spaced to promote even cooking. The fillets should be about one inch thick for the best results, allowing them to cook through without drying out. If your fillets are thinner, you may want to reduce the final baking time slightly, checking for doneness around the 8-minute mark.

Ingredients

For the Baked Cod

4 cod fillets
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the tomatoes are well coated.

Bake the Tomatoes

Roast the mixture in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to release their juices and become tender.

Add the Cod

After the tomatoes have roasted, remove the dish from the oven. Place the cod fillets on top of the tomatoes, and drizzle a little olive oil over the fish. Season with more salt and pepper if desired.

Finish Baking

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean baked cod warm, paired with crusty bread or over a bed of rice!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating olives or capers into the tomato mixture before baking. You can also serve this dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright finish.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete Mediterranean experience, consider serving this baked cod with a side of couscous or quinoa tossed with lemon juice and fresh herbs. This not only complements the dish's flavors but also adds a satisfying texture that balances the tender fish and juicy tomatoes. Crusty bread for dipping into the savory tomato juices is another wonderful option.

You can also elevate the meal by pairing the baked cod with a fresh Greek salad. The crunchiness of cucumbers, the sharpness of feta cheese, and the zesty dressing would make for a refreshing contrast to the warm, aromatic dish. Plus, the vibrancy of the salad mirrors the olives and herbs traditionally found in Mediterranean cuisine.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in a microwave or covered in the oven at a moderate temperature to prevent the cod from becoming rubbery. Adding a splash of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before reheating can also help maintain moisture and flavor.

For those looking to meal prep, you can prepare the tomato mixture in advance and keep it in the fridge for a day. When ready to serve, simply assemble with the cod and bake as directed. This can save you crucial time on busy weeknights while still delivering a fresh, flavorful dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

→ What can I serve with the Mediterranean Baked Cod?

This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or a simple green salad.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I substitute other fish for cod?

Absolutely! Other white fish like tilapia or haddock can work well in this recipe.