Mediterranean Baked Cod With Tomatoes

Name: Mediterranean Baked Cod With Tomatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 pieces of cod fillets (6 ounces each); 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Meals

I always look forward to preparing Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes for dinner. The delicious symphony of flavors combined with the beautiful presentation never fails to impress my family and friends. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is key, and I love how the tender cod melds perfectly with the earthy tomatoes and hints of Mediterranean herbs. It’s a simple yet extraordinary dish that can easily become the star of any meal, and the best part is that it takes minimal effort to create this vibrant and tasty dinner!

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-02-16T02:45:36.093Z

I remember the first time I made Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes for my family. The aroma wafting through the kitchen instantly whetted our appetites, and we couldn't wait to dig in. Using ripe, juicy tomatoes is crucial because they not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful color to the dish. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can create something so delightful!

After trying various methods of cooking cod, I found that baking it with tomatoes and herbs delivers a moist and flavorful result. This method allows the fish to absorb all those wonderful Mediterranean flavors. I always top it with fresh herbs right before serving to elevate the dish even further!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously tender cod infused with aromatic herbs and tomatoes
Healthy and light for a guilt-free dinner option
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Cooking with Fresh Ingredients

When making Mediterranean Baked Cod, high-quality ingredients truly shine. Fresh cod fillets should have a clean smell, firm texture, and moist appearance. Look for fillets that are wild-caught if possible, as they provide a richer flavor compared to farmed options. Additionally, choose ripe cherry tomatoes that yield slightly when squeezed; this indicates juiciness, which is essential for creating a flavorful sauce during baking.

Herbs are another critical component. Using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate the dish significantly. If you can find fresh oregano and basil, use them in place of the dried varieties, as they will release their oils and flavors more vividly. However, if fresh herbs are not available, the dried ones will work just fine and still impart aromatic qualities.

Baking for the Perfect Texture

The baking process is vital for achieving that coveted flaky texture in the cod. Preheating your oven to 400°F ensures the fish cooks evenly. Depending on the thickness of your fillets, they will need about 20-25 minutes in the oven. A great tip is to check for doneness by using a fork; the fish should flake easily and appear opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to dry, tough fish.

To prevent the dish from becoming too watery, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the tomato mixture before layering it over the cod. Basting the fillets halfway through with the tomato juices from the bottom of the baking dish can also enhance flavor while keeping the fish moist without compromising texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Mediterranean Baked Cod with Tomatoes:

Ingredients

4 pieces of cod fillets (6 ounces each)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Mediterranean Baked Cod:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.

Prepare the Tomato Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, oregano, basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat.

Assemble the Dish

Place the cod fillets in the greased baking dish and pour the tomato mixture over the top, making sure to distribute the tomatoes evenly.

Bake the Cod

Bake the cod in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your vibrant dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the tomato mixture before baking. It complements the cod beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

This Mediterranean Baked Cod is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare the tomato mixture a day in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just ensure to add the cod fillets right before baking to maintain their fresh texture and flavor. If you plan to freeze the dish, I recommend freezing the uncooked cod with the tomato mixture in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to two months; simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

When storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps preserve the cod's texture better than microwaving. Additionally, consider serving the leftovers over a bed of greens or with quinoa for a nutritious lunch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side of garlic sautéed spinach or a light Mediterranean quinoa salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside herbed couscous or roasted vegetables. A splash of lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors even more and adds a refreshing finish.

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding ingredients. For a Mediterranean twist, incorporate olives or capers into the tomato mixture for an additional layer of flavor. Alternatively, try using other fish, such as halibut or tilapia, if cod is unavailable, adjusting the cooking time as necessary based on the type and thickness of the fish you choose.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cod. Just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking to achieve the best texture.

→ What side dishes pair well with Mediterranean Baked Cod?

Light salads, steamed vegetables, or Mediterranean quinoa make great accompaniments to this dish.

→ Can I replace cod with another type of fish?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other white fish like tilapia or haddock.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the fish.