Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines the tender, flaky texture of cod with the vibrant flavours of tomatoes and olives. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying meal.

The combination of juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and aromatic herbs creates a flavourful sauce that complements the delicate taste of the cod. Whether you’re looking for a quick midweek dinner or an elegant meal to serve to guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Equipment Needed

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Chopping board and knife
• Aluminium foil (optional)

Ingredients

• 4 skin-on cod loins, about 170-230 grams each
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 200°C. This ensures that the oven is hot and ready to cook the cod evenly.
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Halve the cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives. Finely chop the garlic cloves and fresh basil.
3. Season the Cod Loins:
   Pat the cod loins dry with kitchen roll. Season both sides of the cod loins generously with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, olives, garlic, and dried oregano. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
   Spread the tomato and olive mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
   Place the cod loins on top of the tomato mixture, skin-side up. This arrangement allows the cod to absorb the flavours from the tomatoes and olives while baking.
5. Bake the Cod:
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cod loins.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the baking dish from the oven. Sprinkle the fresh basil over the top of the cod and tomato mixture.
   Serve the baked cod with lemon wedges on the side for an extra touch of brightness and acidity.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing Ideas

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light couscous salad, steamed green beans, or roasted new potatoes. For a more substantial meal, a simple risotto or quinoa salad would complement the Mediterranean flavours perfectly.

Wine Pairing

A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with this dish, enhancing the fresh, vibrant flavours of the tomatoes and olives.

Cooking Tips

Choose Fresh Ingredients

Fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality olives will make a significant difference to the flavour of this dish.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste the tomato and olive mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. The olives are naturally salty, so be mindful of the amount of additional salt.

Prevent Overcooking

Keep an eye on the cod as it bakes to prevent it from overcooking. The fish should be opaque and flake easily but still be moist and tender.

Conclusion

Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives is a simple yet flavourful dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. With its vibrant colours and delightful aromas, this dish is sure to become a favourite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the health benefits of this nutritious meal, perfect for any occasion. Serve it with your favourite sides and a glass of crisp white wine for a truly delightful dining experience.