Greek-Style Baked Cod

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Introduction

Greek-Style Baked Cod is a light, vibrant dish that brings the bold, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate. Tender, flaky cod fillets are baked in a fragrant mix of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, allowing the fish to absorb all the zesty, savory goodness. Topped with a sprinkle of tangy feta cheese and briny Kalamata olives, this dish is as delicious as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress your guests, Greek-Style Baked Cod is the perfect choice.

The first time I made this dish, I was struck by how quickly everything came together, yet how rich and flavorful it turned out. The cod, with its delicate texture, perfectly complements the sharp lemon, garlicky herbs, and the creamy, tangy feta and olives on top. The aroma as it bakes in the oven makes you feel like you’ve been transported straight to a Mediterranean seaside village.

What I love most about Greek-Style Baked Cod is how refreshing and satisfying it is. It pairs beautifully with a simple Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of couscous or quinoa. Plus, the recipe is versatile—you can swap the cod for other mild white fish or even add a drizzle of tzatziki sauce for an extra burst of flavor. No matter how you serve it, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine and is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.

Perfect for:

  • Weeknight dinners
  • Mediterranean-inspired meals
  • Light, healthy dinners
  • Seafood lovers
  • Special occasions

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Greek-Style Baked Cod will quickly become a favorite:

  • Fresh and Light: The cod is tender and light, making it a healthy and satisfying option.
  • Mediterranean Flavors: The dish is full of zesty lemon, rich olive oil, and bold Mediterranean spices that bring out the best in the cod.
  • Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can prepare this delicious dish in under 30 minutes.
  • No-Fuss Baking: This is a one-pan dish that requires little prep and cooks effortlessly in the oven.
  • Packed with Nutrients: Cod is a great source of protein, while the olive oil and olives provide heart-healthy fats.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Greek-Style Baked Cod:

  • 4 cod fillets (6 oz each), skinless and boneless
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup Kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Ingredient Highlights

  • Cod Fillets: Cod is a mild, flaky white fish that bakes beautifully and absorbs the flavors of the marinade.
  • Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil provides a rich, fruity base for the marinade and adds healthy fats.
  • Garlic and Lemon: These two ingredients are staples in Greek cuisine, offering brightness and aromatic flavor.
  • Kalamata Olives and Feta Cheese: These ingredients give the dish a true Mediterranean flair, with the salty olives and creamy feta perfectly complementing the mild cod.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Prepare the Cod:

  1. Arrange the Cod Fillets: Place the cod fillets in a baking dish, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer.
  2. Marinate the Cod: Pour the marinade evenly over the cod fillets, making sure the fish is well-coated. Let it marinate for about 5-10 minutes (if you have more time, you can marinate it for up to 30 minutes in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Bake the Cod:

  1. Bake the Fish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod fillets.

Add the Toppings:

  1. Garnish with Olives and Feta: Remove the cod from the oven and sprinkle chopped Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese over the top of each fillet. Return the dish to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the olives and melt the feta slightly.
  2. Garnish with Parsley: After baking, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

How to Serve

  • With Greek Salad: Serve with a traditional Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.
  • Over Rice: Serve the cod on a bed of rice or couscous for a complete meal.
  • With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired side.
  • With Warm Pita Bread: Serve with warm pita bread to scoop up the delicious olive oil and juices from the fish.
  • For Meal Prep: This dish makes an excellent option for meal prep—serve it with quinoa or a fresh green salad for a nutritious lunch.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcook the Cod: Cod cooks quickly and will become dry if overcooked. Keep an eye on the fillets, and remove them from the oven once they flake easily with a fork.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano and thyme will enhance the flavor of the dish. If you don’t have fresh, you can substitute dried herbs.
  • Add More Vegetables: For a more complete meal, add a handful of cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or olives to the baking dish for extra flavor and color.
  • Substitute Fish: If you don’t have cod, you can use other firm white fish like haddock, halibut, or tilapia.

Recipe Variations

  1. Spicy Greek Cod: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
  2. Herb-Crusted Cod: Coat the cod fillets with a mixture of breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, and garlic before baking for a crunchy texture.
  3. Greek Yogurt Topping: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top of the baked cod for a creamy contrast.
  4. Mediterranean Veggies: Add sliced red onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers to the baking dish for a Mediterranean vegetable medley.
  5. Lemon Dill Cod: Swap oregano for fresh dill and increase the lemon juice for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
  6. Pine Nut Topping: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts over the cod for added crunch and nutty flavor.
  7. Feta and Spinach Stuffed Cod: Stuff the cod fillets with a mixture of spinach, feta, and garlic for an extra twist.
  8. Olive Tapenade Topping: Add a spoonful of olive tapenade on top of each fillet before baking for an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor.
  9. Balsamic Glazed Cod: Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the cod before baking for a sweet, tangy twist.
  10. Grilled Greek Cod: Instead of baking, grill the marinated cod fillets on a barbecue for a smoky flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked cod in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
  • Storage: Store leftover Greek-Style Baked Cod in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to avoid drying out the fish.

Special Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Whisk
  • Knife for chopping olives and parsley
  • Zester or grater for lemon zest (optional)

FAQ

  1. Can I use frozen cod for this recipe?
    Yes, frozen cod works well, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
  2. Can I make this recipe with another type of fish?
    Yes, you can substitute cod with other firm white fish like haddock, tilapia, or halibut.
  3. What if I don’t have Kalamata olives?
    You can use any type of olives you prefer, though Kalamata olives provide a traditional Greek flavor.
  4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
    You can marinate the cod fillets ahead of time and bake them just before serving.
  5. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?
    Yes, you can add bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes to the baking dish for extra flavor and nutrients.

Conclusion

Greek-Style Baked Cod is a simple yet flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal. Tender cod fillets are baked in olive oil, lemon, and garlic, and topped with Kalamata olives and feta cheese for a burst of bold, fresh flavors. Whether served with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice, this dish brings the bright, vibrant tastes of Greece to your table in under 30 minutes.

Easy to prepare and full of healthy ingredients, Greek-Style Baked Cod is a great go-to seafood meal that delivers on both flavor and nutrition. The combination of tender fish, tangy olives, and creamy feta creates a balanced and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

I can’t wait to see your Greek-Style Baked Cod creations! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make this dish your own. Don’t forget to share your favorite pairings in the comments. Happy cooking!

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