Description
This Mediterranean Baked Cod is light, flavorful, and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner. Packed with cherry tomatoes, briny olives, creamy white beans, and bright citrus juices, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and looks just as beautiful as it tastes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cod filets (7–8 oz each)
- 6 lemon slices
- 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3/4 cup cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/3 cup Castelvetrano olives
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For the Seasoning Blend:
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season both sides of the cod filets with the spice blend.
- Cut two large pieces of parchment paper. Place three lemon slices in the center of each.
- Set a seasoned cod filet on top of the lemon slices.
- Divide the cherry tomatoes, cannellini beans, olives, and capers between the two packets, scattering them over and around the fish.
- Drizzle each with half of the lemon juice, orange juice, and olive oil. Add a small pinch of salt to each packet.
- Fold the parchment over the fish and ingredients, then crimp the edges tightly to seal and form a closed packet.
- Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fish.
- Carefully transfer the packets to shallow bowls or plates. Open the parchment carefully to release the steam.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
- ENJOY!
Notes
- Use firm white fish like cod, haddock, halibut, or sea bass for best texture.
- Pat fish dry before seasoning to help spices adhere.
- Parchment paper or foil can be used to make sealed packets.
- Castelvetrano olives are mild and buttery; swap for kalamata if you prefer something bolder.
- Cannellini beans add creaminess and protein—drain and rinse well.
- Orange juice + lemon juice brighten the flavors—substitute with all lemon juice if needed.
- Don’t skip the garnish! Fresh parsley and lemon wedges enhance the final dish.
- Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your filets—check for opaque, flaky flesh.
- Serve packets in shallow bowls to catch all the delicious citrusy juices.
- Assemble ahead for meal prep—store packets in the fridge and bake when ready.
- Pair with steamed rice, orzo, couscous or roasted potatoes, for a heartier dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Easy
- Cuisine: Fish and Seafood