Mediterranean baked haddock is a light and flavorful dish that combines the delicate taste of haddock with vibrant Mediterranean ingredients. This easy-to-make recipe showcases the fresh flavors of tomatoes, olives, and herbs, creating a healthy meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish.
Mediterranean Baked Haddock Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 haddock fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Arrange the Haddock:
- Place the haddock fillets in the prepared baking dish, skin side down if applicable. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, and half of the lemon juice.
- Prepare the Mediterranean Topping:
- In a bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and the remaining lemon juice. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to combine.
- Top the Haddock:
- Spoon the Mediterranean topping evenly over the haddock fillets, making sure to distribute the tomatoes, olives, and onions.
- Bake the Haddock:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the haddock is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve the haddock with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Grain or Rice: Serve the Mediterranean baked haddock alongside a bed of couscous, quinoa, or rice to soak up the delicious juices.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair it with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a complete meal.
- Salad: A simple arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Baked Haddock:
- Choose Fresh Haddock: Look for fresh, firm haddock fillets with a mild smell. If you can’t find haddock, cod or other white fish varieties work well too.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to experiment with other Mediterranean ingredients like artichoke hearts, capers, or feta cheese to suit your taste.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance by marinating the fish with the seasoning and topping, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
- Storage: Leftover baked haddock can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Mediterranean baked haddock is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that brings the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. With its fresh ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a delicious seafood dish. Enjoy the light, bright flavors that this recipe offers, and make it a regular in your meal rotation!
