Description
This Baked Fish with Olives and Ginger recipe features tender, flaky white fish fillets baked in a fragrant mixture of olive oil, green olives, capers, fresh ginger, and zesty lemon slices. Infused with subtle heat from crushed red pepper and brightened by fresh parsley, this dish is a vibrant, flavorful way to enjoy a healthy seafood meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Fish and Marinade
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 cup pitted green olives (preferably Castelvetrano), roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon drained capers
- 1 lemon, halved, ½ thinly sliced
- 4 (6-ounce) skinless mild white fish fillets (such as cod, hake, or halibut), each about 1-inch thick
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 (1/2-inch) piece fresh (unpeeled) ginger, finely grated
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 2 packed tablespoons torn or chopped fresh parsley or cilantro leaves and tender stems
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a rimmed sheet pan or baking dish, combine the olive oil, chopped green olives, capers, and lemon slices evenly.
- Coat and season fish: Turn each fish fillet in the olive oil mixture to coat thoroughly. Space the fillets evenly apart on the baking dish. Season the exposed parts lightly with salt, then rub in the finely grated fresh ginger. Sprinkle each fillet with a grind or two of black pepper and the crushed red pepper for a touch of heat.
- Bake the fish: Cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven until the center of each fish fillet is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, approximately 20 minutes. Note that thinner fillets may cook faster, so monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
- Finish and serve: Carefully remove the foil to avoid steam burns. Squeeze the remaining lemon half over the baked fish and spoon the olive and olive oil mixture over the top to enhance flavor. Garnish with the torn or chopped fresh parsley or cilantro leaves before serving.
Notes
- Select firm, white fleshed fish like cod, hake, or halibut for best results.
- Castelvetrano olives are mild and buttery, but other green olives can be substituted if preferred.
- Adjust crushed red pepper to taste, depending on desired heat level.
- Use fresh ginger unpeeled as it softens during baking and adds excellent aroma.
- Serve this dish with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a light salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: baked fish, olives, ginger, healthy seafood, Mediterranean recipe, easy fish dish, cod recipe, halibut, hake, one-pan fish
