Greek-Style Baked Cod Recipe is a light, healthy, and flavorful dish that brings together the fresh, vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine. The cod is baked with a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and Kalamata olives, creating a bright and aromatic dish. Topped with crumbled feta cheese and served with a side of roasted vegetables or a Greek salad, this baked cod is a perfect balance of flaky fish and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
I first made Greek-Style Baked Cod Recipe when I was craving something fresh and light but still packed with flavor. The combination of lemon, olives, and feta gave the cod a tangy, savory kick, and the cod itself came out perfectly tender. What I love most about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare, yet it feels elegant enough for a special dinner. You can serve it with a side of couscous, quinoa, or a Mediterranean-style rice pilaf for a complete meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Seafood lovers
- Mediterranean cuisine fans
- Dinner parties
- Healthy, light meals
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Greek-Style Baked Cod Recipe will become your go-to seafood dish:
- Mediterranean Flavor: A perfect blend of olives, feta, and herbs gives this cod a bright, savory taste.
- Healthy and Light: With lean protein and fresh ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: The straightforward preparation and baking make this meal hassle-free.
- Perfectly Baked Cod: The cod comes out flaky and tender, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean.
- Vibrant and Colorful: The green olives, bright tomatoes, and feta create an appealing dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Impressive Presentation: This dish’s rustic yet elegant style makes it great for special occasions.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prep the ingredients in advance and bake when ready, making it a great choice for busy evenings.
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Ideal for those following low-carb or keto diets without compromising on flavor.
- Customizable Toppings: Adjust the level of olives or add extra herbs for a more personalized flavor profile.
- Fresh and Seasonal: This dish makes use of seasonal vegetables like tomatoes and herbs, enhancing its freshness.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 18g
Ingredients
For the Greek-Style Baked Cod:
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For the Garnish:
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Extra crumbled feta
Ingredient Highlights
- Cod Fillets: A mild, flaky fish that absorbs the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
- Green Olives: Provide a briny, tangy contrast to the fish.
- Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, salty element that complements the other ingredients.
- Fresh Herbs: Oregano enhances the Mediterranean flavor and aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Cod:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Season the Cod: Place the cod fillets in the baking dish. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the fillets, then sprinkle with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the Toppings: Scatter halved cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and crumbled feta cheese over the fillets.
- Bake the Cod: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
How to Serve
Here are serving suggestions for Greek-Style Baked Cod Recipe:
- With a Side of Rice: Serve with fluffy white rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful juices.
- On a Bed of Greens: Serve the cod over a bed of fresh spinach or mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a Mediterranean feast.
- With Pita Bread: Enjoy with warm pita or flatbread to make the meal more filling.
- As Part of a Greek Feast: Serve alongside Greek salad, tzatziki, and hummus for a full Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- With Sautéed Spinach: Serve with sautéed garlic spinach for a nutritious and flavorful side.
- For Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prep—serve it with roasted sweet potatoes or a grain of your choice.
- As a Sandwich: Flake the cod into pieces and serve it as a sandwich on a soft roll with Greek yogurt or tahini.
- With Couscous: Pair with couscous for a light yet hearty side dish.
Additional Tips
- Check for Doneness: Cod should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when fully cooked.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, olives, and herbs will elevate the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Fish: Cod is delicate and should be baked just until it flakes, as overcooking can make it dry.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat if desired.
- Try Different Fish: If cod is unavailable, you can substitute with other mild, flaky fish like haddock or tilapia.
Recipe Variations
- Lemon and Dill Cod: Add fresh dill to the topping for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Spicy Greek Cod: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or paprika to the seasoning for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the fish and replace it with grilled vegetables or roasted eggplant for a plant-based option.
- Baked Salmon Version: Swap the cod for salmon fillets for a richer, more flavorful version.
- Add Capers: Include capers in the topping for an extra briny, tangy bite.
- Crispy Topping: Top the cod with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese for a crispy texture.
Special Equipment
- Baking Dish: A medium-sized baking dish or sheet pan works best for this recipe.
- Sharp Knife: For cutting tomatoes and olives evenly.
- Measuring Spoons: For accurate seasoning measurements.
- Cooking Brush: Optional, for evenly spreading the olive oil on the cod fillets.
FAQ Section
- Can I use frozen cod?
Yes, just ensure to thaw it completely before baking. - How long will the baked cod last in the fridge?
This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge, then bake it when ready to serve. - Can I substitute the feta cheese?
Yes, you can use ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor. - What can I serve with leftover cod?
Leftover cod can be added to salads, tacos, or wraps. - Can I make this dish in a different style of fish?
Absolutely! Try this recipe with halibut, snapper, or trout. - Can I use Kalamata olives instead of green olives?
Yes, Kalamata olives will provide a more intense flavor. - How can I make the fish crispier?
Try broiling the cod for the last few minutes of cooking for a crispier top. - What is the best way to reheat leftover cod?
Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to avoid drying it out. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cod for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Greek-Style Baked Cod Recipe is a light, flavorful, and healthy dish that combines the mild, flaky cod with classic Mediterranean ingredients like lemon, garlic, olives, tomatoes, and herbs. This recipe is simple to prepare and results in a beautifully baked fish that’s bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual lunch, or even a special occasion meal.
To make Greek-Style Baked Cod, start by arranging cod fillets in a baking dish. Season them with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Then, prepare a topping with diced tomatoes, garlic, Kalamata olives, red onions, and a sprinkle of oregano. You can also add some fresh lemon juice and zest for extra brightness. Spoon the topping over the cod fillets and bake in the oven until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For an added burst of flavor, finish with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a simple Greek salad. It’s light yet satisfying, and the Mediterranean flavors will transport your taste buds straight to the coast.
I can’t wait to see how your Greek-Style Baked Cod turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your vibrant, flavorful creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!