Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish

🐟 Easy Mediterranean Baked Fish 🍋

*Flaky, herb-crusted fish with garlic, lemon, and olive oil—light yet bursting with flavor! Ready in 30 minutes.*

📝 Ingredients (Serves 2)

• 2 white fish fillets (cod, halibut, or sea bass, 6-8 oz each)

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for warmth)

• Zest + juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp juice)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)

• Lemon slices + fresh herbs, for garnish

(Optional add-ins: ½ cup cherry tomatoes or Kalamata olives for roasting alongside!)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Pat fish very dry with paper towels (key for perfect texture!).

2️⃣ Herb Oil:

• In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, lemon zest/juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

3️⃣ Bake:

• Place fish in a baking dish. Spoon herb oil over fillets, coating evenly.

• Top with lemon slices and roast 12-15 mins (until fish flakes easily).

• Optional: Broil 1-2 mins for a golden crust.

4️⃣ Serve:

• Drizzle with pan juices. Garnish with fresh herbs.

🍽️ Pairings

• Sides: Roasted veggies, couscous, or crusty bread.

• Wine: Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

💡 Pro Tips

✅ Don’t overcook! Fish continues cooking after removal from oven.
✅ Skin-on? Crisp it in a skillet first, then bake.
✅ No fresh herbs? Use 1 tsp Italian seasoning instead.

🌟 Why This Works

✨ Bright + balanced flavors from lemon and herbs.
✨ Healthy fats from olive oil keep fish moist.
✨ Effortless elegance for weeknights or guests!

Variation: Swap herbs for dill + parsley or add capers for briny punch.

Want a foil-packet or air-fryer version? Ask below! 😊