| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins – 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 380 | 26g | 4g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 2g | 29g | 0.82g |
There’s something beautiful and magical about the fusion of flavors in the Greek-Style Baked Cod with Lemon and Oregano, one of my personal favorites. But it’s more than just a fish dish – it’s a story of savoring the wealth of nature’s bounty handed down from one generation to another, in an explosion of sumptuous Mediterranean flavors.
A Taste of the Mediterranean
As a lad from Montana, where the meat of the land and simple, hearty meals define our dining tables, the vibrant, aromatic, and meticulously balanced complexities of Greek cuisine was an eye-opening wonder. This Greek-Style Baked Cod with Lemon and Oregano is a reflection of that journey – a tangy, zesty, and earthy dish that transports you to the Grecian coastlines with each bite.
Served alongside a simple Greek salad, and perhaps a generous helping of Tzatziki dip, it’s a combination that’s sure to ignite your palate. For those unfamiliar, Tzatziki is a delightful dip made with Greek yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and dill. Check out this marvelous tzatziki recipe from Bon Appétit.
More than Just Great Taste
But it’s not just about the taste, it’s also about championing healthier choices. A source of lean protein, cod is often praised for its vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health and brain functions. Paired with the olive oil’s beneficial monounsaturated fats and the fresh vegetables’ nutrients, this makes the Greek-Style Baked Cod with Lemon and Oregano an absolute delight for the health-conscious epicurean.
What’s even more exciting is the versatility of this dish. If fish isn’t to your liking, then why not substitute the cod with chicken, or for vegetarians, a hefty portobello mushroom cap? Here is a gorgeous stuffed portobello mushroom recipe from Food Network for inspiration. Play around with it and make it your own!
Whether you allow this Greek-Style Baked Cod with Lemon and Oregano to inspire your culinary journey or infuse your approach to food with a healthier perspective, one thing is clear: this is a recipe steeped in cultural depth, nutrition, and, above all, a tantalizing, unforgettable flavor phenomenon.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs fresh cod fillets
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 6 slices of lemon, for garnishing
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano, for garnishing
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While waiting for the oven to reach the desired temperature, prepare the cod fish by rinsing it under cold water and patting it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step Two
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This mixture will serve as your marinade.
Step Three
Place the cod fillets in a baking tray. Pour half of the marinade over the fish, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Let it sit for approximately 15 minutes to allow it to absorb the flavors.
Step Four
While the fish is marinating, prepare your vegetables. In a separate bowl, combine the sliced onion, bell peppers, halved cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle the remaining marinade over the vegetables and toss to coat.
Step Five
Spread the marinated vegetables around the fish in the baking tray. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until the fish is flaky and the vegetables are tender.
Step Six
Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the chopped parsley and crumbled feta cheese over the top of the fish and vegetables. Add lemon slices and fresh oregano for garnish before serving.
Step Seven
Check the seasoning and adjust if needed. Serve the Greek-Style Baked Cod while hot, preferably with a side of Greek salad or steamed rice. Enjoy your meal!
