When it comes to Mediterranean cuisine, few dishes exemplify its fresh and vibrant essence quite like Greek Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Herbs. This delightful recipe is a harmonious blend of flavors that embodies the sunny landscapes of Greece, where the sea meets lush gardens filled with fragrant herbs.
To prepare this culinary masterpiece, you’ll need a few key ingredients: fresh fish (such as sea bass or bream), ripe tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its simplicity but also in its ability to highlight the natural flavors of the fish, enhanced by the freshness of the local produce.
Ingredients
2 whole fish (such as sea bass or bream), cleaned and scaled
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 lemon, juiced
1/4 cup olive oil
Fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, and oregano)
Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your fish roasts perfectly, achieving a crispy skin while retaining moist, flaky flesh.
2. Prepare the Fish: Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make three diagonal slits on each side of the fish—this helps it to cook evenly and allows the flavors of the herbs and tomatoes to penetrate the flesh.
3. Herb Infusion: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, and a few tbsp of olive oil. Rub this mixture generously over the fish, making sure to get it into the slits as well for maximum flavor.
4. Create the Vegetable Base: In a large baking dish, spread the sliced onions and halved cherry tomatoes evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the vegetables with salt, pepper, and a blend of fresh herbs for added aroma.
5. Place the Fish: Lay the prepared fish on top of the tomato and onion bed. Drizzle a little olive oil over the fish and top with additional herbs for an appealing presentation and vibrant flavor.
6. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 2025 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let the fish bake uncovered for an additional 1015 minutes, allowing the skin to brown beautifully.
Serving
Once the fish is cooked through and the tomatoes have released their juices, it’s time to serve! Carefully transfer the fish to a platter, spooning over the fragrant vegetables and remaining juices from the baking dish. Garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges for a burst of color and flavor.
Pair this Greek Baked Fish with a side of crisp Greek salad or fluffy rice soaked in lemon and herbs for a complete meal that transports you to the sunsoaked shores of the Mediterranean. Each bite is a reflection of the region’s culinary heritage, where simplicity and flavor combine to create unforgettable dining experiences.
As you gather around the table with family and friends, the enticing aroma of baked fish mingling with fresh tomatoes and herbs will captivate your senses, leaving you yearning for another sunny taste of Greece!