Pin it This baked fish fillet delivers a light and flavorful meal with minimal effort. White fish fillets are coated in a zesty marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme, then topped with fresh lemon slices and baked until tender and flaky. The result is a healthy, protein-rich dish that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
There is something almost meditative about baking fish. The way the kitchen starts smelling like lemon and herbs about halfway through. I first made this on a Tuesday when I wanted something that felt special but would not keep me at the stove for an hour.
My sister was skeptical when I told her baked fish could be this good. She took one bite and asked for the recipe immediately. Now it is her go to when she wants to impress people without actually trying that hard.
Ingredients
- White fish fillets: Cod and haddock work beautifully but tilapia is a solid budget friendly option that still delivers
- Olive oil: This creates the base of your simple marinade and helps those herbs cling to every inch
- Fresh lemon juice: Brightens everything and cuts through the natural richness of the fish
- Garlic cloves: Minced finely so it disperses evenly through the oil mixture
- Dried oregano: Brings that classic Mediterranean note everyone recognizes immediately
- Dried thyme: Works in harmony with oregano for a balanced herbed flavor
- Salt and pepper: The only seasoning you need beyond the herbs
- Lemon slices: These roast on top becoming sweet and almost candy like
- Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh finish right before serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven:
- Get it to 200°C or 400°F while you prep everything else
- Prep the fish:
- Pat those fillets completely dry then arrange them in a baking dish with a light coating of oil
- Mix the marinade:
- Whisk together your olive oil lemon juice garlic oregano thyme salt and pepper until combined
- Coat the fish:
- Brush that herbed oil mixture over both sides of each fillet working quickly so the oil does not separate
- Add the lemon topping:
- Lay thin lemon slices directly on top of each piece where they will roast and soften
- Bake until perfect:
- Let it go for 18 to 20 minutes until the fish flakes apart easily with just a gentle nudge from a fork
- Finish with parsley:
- Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top right before bringing it to the table
Pin it This recipe has saved me so many times when unexpected guests showed up. I always keep fish fillets in the freezer now. There is something comforting about knowing you can put something this elegant on the table in under thirty minutes.
Making It Your Own
I have learned that capers tucked under the lemon slices add a bright salty punch that people cannot quite identify. Thin red onion rings work too if you want a bit more sweetness.
Side Dish Strategy
Rice is obvious but roasted vegetables share the oven beautifully if you time it right. A crisp salad with a vinaigrette cuts through the richness and feels lighter than starch.
Serving Tips
Plating matters more than we admit sometimes. A wedge of lemon on the side and a sprinkle of extra herbs makes this look like it came from a restaurant kitchen.
- Let people add salt at the table since the fish absorbs it differently as it rests
- Have a small bowl of extra parsley ready for those who love the herbal finish
- Serve immediately because this does not improve with sitting around
Pin it Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that stay with you longest.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of fish works best for baking?
-
White fish fillets like cod, haddock, or tilapia work exceptionally well due to their mild flavor and firm texture that holds up beautifully during baking.
- → How do I know when the fish is done?
-
The fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). The flesh should appear opaque throughout.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
-
Yes, you can marinate the fish up to 2 hours before baking. Store covered in the refrigerator, then bake when ready to serve.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
-
Roasted vegetables, steamed rice, quinoa, or a light green salad complement this dish perfectly. The lemon flavors also pair well with asparagus or zucchini.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
-
Absolutely. Cooked fillets refrigerate well for 2-3 days and reheat gently in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes.
