Mediterranean Baked Fish with Artichokes and Olives

If you’re looking for a light, flavorful dinner that’s both healthy and easy to prepare, this Mediterranean Baked Fish with Artichokes and Olives is a perfect choice. Tender white fish is baked with juicy cherry tomatoes, briny Kalamata olives, tender artichoke hearts, garlic, and fresh herbs, then finished with a bright squeeze of lemon. It’s a simple one-pan meal that brings the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your table.

I first made this recipe after bringing home some fresh cod from the local market. A friend suggested pairing it with artichokes, olives, and plenty of lemon for a Mediterranean-inspired dinner. Last weekend, I served it to my family with a side of roasted vegetables and warm whole-grain bread. The fish was perfectly flaky, the vegetables were full of flavor, and everyone agreed it tasted like something you’d enjoy at a seaside restaurant.

Since then, it’s become one of my favorite healthy dinners because it’s elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in about 35 minutes
One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Rich in lean protein
Heart-healthy Mediterranean ingredients
Naturally gluten-free
Fresh, bright flavors
Perfect for weeknight dinners

Ingredients

For the Fish

4 white fish fillets (cod, halibut, haddock, or sea bass), about 6 ounces each
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika

For the Mediterranean Topping

1 can (14 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup Kalamata olives
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons capers (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Optional Garnishes

Lemon wedges
Extra fresh parsley
Crumbled feta cheese
Fresh dill

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large baking dish
Mixing bowl
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Fish

Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels.

Season both sides with:

Salt
Black pepper
Oregano
Paprika

Arrange the fillets in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Mediterranean Topping

In a bowl, combine:

Artichoke hearts
Cherry tomatoes
Kalamata olives
Garlic
Red onion
Capers (if using)
Olive oil
Lemon juice
Lemon zest
Parsley
Basil

Mix gently.

Spoon the mixture evenly over and around the fish.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with additional parsley or dill.

Serve with fresh lemon wedges and, if desired, a little crumbled feta cheese.

Expert Tips

Choose Firm White Fish

Cod, halibut, haddock, or sea bass all hold their shape well during baking.

Don’t Overcook

Fish cooks quickly and stays moist when removed as soon as it flakes easily.

Fresh Lemon Makes a Difference

Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.

Use Quality Olive Oil

A good extra virgin olive oil enhances every ingredient in the dish.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Salmon Version

Replace the white fish with salmon fillets and bake for 15–18 minutes, depending on thickness.

Add Spinach

Scatter fresh baby spinach around the fish during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Spicy Mediterranean Fish

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the topping for gentle heat.

Seafood Bake

Include large shrimp or scallops alongside the fish for a mixed seafood dinner.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Baked Fish

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Lemon herb rice
Quinoa
Couscous
Roasted baby potatoes
Steamed green beans
Greek salad
Warm whole-grain bread

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Freezer

Freezing is not recommended, as the fish may lose its delicate texture.

Reheating

Warm gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutritional Benefits

Each serving provides:

Lean protein from fish
Heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids (depending on the fish used)
Healthy monounsaturated fats from olive oil
Fiber from artichokes
Antioxidants from tomatoes and herbs
Vitamins C and K from fresh ingredients

Nutritional values will vary depending on the ingredients and serving sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fish?

Yes. Thaw the fish completely and pat it dry before baking for the best texture.

Which fish works best?

Cod, halibut, haddock, sea bass, and snapper are all excellent choices.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the topping in advance and refrigerate it separately. Add it to the fish just before baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add cheese?

Absolutely. A sprinkle of crumbled feta after baking adds a creamy, tangy finish.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Simply omit the feta cheese garnish.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Baked Fish with Artichokes and Olives is a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. After making it for my family last weekend, it quickly became one of our favorite seafood dinners because it’s fresh, colorful, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.

With flaky fish, tender artichokes, juicy tomatoes, briny olives, fragrant herbs, and bright lemon, every bite is light, wholesome, and satisfying. Serve it with your favorite grain or a crisp salad for a meal that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe collection. 🐟🍋🫒🌿🍅