Delicious Greek Baked Fish: A Healthy Dinner Option

In the chaotic and fast-paced world we live in, it’s often difficult to find a moment of peace and relaxation. But what if I told you there is a dish that could transport you across the ocean to the shores of the beautiful Mediterranean sea? A dish that will make you feel like you are sitting at a Greek taverna, enjoying the sea breeze, the sun on your face, and the sound of waves in the background. That dish is Greek baked fish.

My friends, this recipe is not just any ordinary fish bake. It’s not dry, bland, or even worse- overcooked. It’s a succulent and juicy fish with a tangy tomato sauce bursting with flavor, topped with creamy feta cheese that will take you straight to food paradise. The white fish fillets soak up all the goodness of roasted peppers, onions, and garlic. This dish is the perfect embodiment of simplicity and healthfulness; it’s easy to make with simple ingredients- but still nutritious and wholesome.

So why not join me on this gastronomic journey? Let’s dive into the details of this delicious Greek baked fish recipe- or as they call it in Greece, Psari Plaki- and learn how to create it with ease in our own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Baked Fish
Greek Baked Fish

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner option that’s easy to make? Look no further than this Greek Baked Fish recipe! The combination of fresh ingredients and classic Mediterranean flavors is sure to leave your taste buds satisfied.

One of the reasons why you’ll love this recipe is because it features simple, healthy ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. From garlic cloves and small capers to yellow bell pepper and kalamata olive, each ingredient is carefully selected to ensure maximum flavor and nutrition. Plus, the recipe is adaptable to various white fish options such as halibut, cod, sea bream or even whole fish.

Another reason why you’ll love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick weeknight meal for the family, this recipe is perfect. It’s elegant enough for special occasions, yet easy enough for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet, which is packed with nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids.

Perhaps most importantly, this Greek baked fish recipe is absolutely delicious. With juicy baked tomatoes and onions paired with flavorful feta cheese and a touch of white wine, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. The combination of savory spices like garlic and oregano with the sweetness of bell peppers makes for an irresistible balance of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

So why not give this amazing Greek-style baked fish recipe a try? It’s simple, healthy, versatile and absolutely delicious – everything you could want in a home-cooked meal.

Ingredient List

 Perfectly Baked Greek Fish to Impress Your Dinner Guests
Perfectly Baked Greek Fish to Impress Your Dinner Guests

Ingredients You Will Need

  • Fish fillets: This recipe works best with white fish such as halibut or cod. But it also works wonderfully with sea bream, sole fillets or even a whole fish, especially if you’re serving this for dinner.

  • Garlic cloves: You’ll need a few garlic cloves to add depth of flavor to the dish. Make sure to chop them finely so that they are evenly distributed.

  • Onions: These will provide a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. Peel them and slice them thinly.

  • Tomatoes and Crushed Tomatoes: This recipe combines fresh tomatoes and crushed tomatoes. To prepare the fresh tomatoes, simply peel them, remove the seeds and chop them into pieces. It’s important to use good quality crushed tomatoes.

  • Yellow Bell Pepper and Red Bell Pepper: They add not only vibrant color but also a slightly sweet taste and texture to the dish. Slice them into thin strips.

  • Feta Cheese crumbles: The salty tang of feta cheese brings out the best in this Mediterranean-inspired dish. Add it on top of the fish after baking.

  • Kalamata Olives and Small Capers: The briny flavor of these ingredients will bring a subtle zing to your dish. Chop the olives roughly, leaving the capers whole.

  • Fresh Parsley: This herb aids digestion and adds bright green color to the dish. Coarsely chop it before adding it in.

  • Olive oil and White Wine: These form the backbone of this recipe’s sauce. Use a good quality olive oil that is mild in flavor; it shouldn’t overpower other flavors present in the recipe. Choose dry white wine that you would drink since it enhances rather than masks flavors.

  • Lemon: It adds a tangy element to the dish but be careful not to add too much or too little.

Note: please check recipe steps below for exact amounts of each ingredient.

The Recipe How-To

 This Simple Dish Will Transport You Straight to the Mediterranean
This Simple Dish Will Transport You Straight to the Mediterranean

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients to create this delicious Greek Baked Fish Recipe, it’s time to get started with the easy step-by-step process.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, take a baking pan and grease it lightly with some olive oil.

Step 2: Season and Dry the Fish

On a board or tray, pat dry the fish fillets of your choice – halibut, cod or sole would work great. Once done, season the fish with some salt, pepper, and a little bit of dried oregano. Set aside.

Step 3: Layer the Fish and Vegetables

Now comes the fun part! On the greased baking pan, We’ll create layers above fish fillets. We’ll start by thinly slicing yellow and red bell peppers, one onion and one lemon. So peel thinly slice onion and slice lemon then lay down their slices on top of each other on top of fish fillets.

Next layer will be crushed tomatoes with garlic cloves followed by kalamata olives and small capers.

Finally sprinkle more garlic powder over everything in the pan along with fresh parsley. Finish off by drizzling olive oil and white wine on top of everything.

Step 4: Bake Everything Together

Once all these ingredients are formed into a layer over the fish fillets then place the baking pan on middle rack in preheated oven at 375°F for about 30 minutes until fish becomes tender and flaky.

Step 5: Create the Feta Cheese Topping

In a separate bowl we’ll combine bread crumbs, crumbled feta cheese, some chopped garlic, chopped parsley or basil leaves, red chili pepper flakes for a spicy kick, more olive oil until all those ingredients simply dress together enough.

Step 6: Top Baked Fish with Feta Mixtures and Bake Again

After fish is cooked take out from oven spread prepared feta mixture evenly over fish in thin layer or as per your preferences then put back into oven at high temperature – at about 425°F (220°C) – for another ten minutes just to toast up feta cheese topping perfectly!

And there you have it! Your amazing Greek Baked Fish Recipe is ready to serve piping hot for a tasty dinner or weekend gathering!

Substitutions and Variations

 A Healthy and Flavorful Way to Enjoy Your Favorite Fish
A Healthy and Flavorful Way to Enjoy Your Favorite Fish

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe and experiment with a few variations. Here are some of my favorite substitutions and variations that can work well:

1. Fish options: This Greek baked fish recipe works well with a variety of white fish such as Halibut, cod, sea bream, sole fillets or even a whole fish for an impressive presentation.

2. Cheese options: While the recipe calls for feta cheese, you can also try using other types of cheese like ricotta or goat cheese.

3. Vegetable options: If you don’t have red or yellow bell peppers on hand, you can use green bell peppers, zucchini or eggplant instead. You can also add some mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor.

4. Spice level: Adjust the spiciness level to your liking by adding more or less chili flakes.

5. Tomato sauce alternatives: If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use canned diced tomatoes and simply break them down with a fork or blend them in a food processor for a desired thickness.

6. Bread option: Instead of using bread crumbs to top the dish for an extra layer of crunchiness, try crushed cracker crumbs or even quinoa flakes if you’re gluten-free.

By trying these substitutions and variations, you can easily transform this classic Greek baked fish recipe into something new and exciting that caters to your tastes and preferences. Don’t forget to share your delicious results with me in the comment section below!

Serving and Pairing

 Let Your Senses Take a Sip of Greece with This Baked Fish Recipe
Let Your Senses Take a Sip of Greece with This Baked Fish Recipe

This Greek Baked Fish Recipe is a perfect dish to entertain your guests with its savory and wholesome flavors. Once the golden-brown fish fillets are baked, serve them on a large platter and garnish them with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges to add color and freshness to the dish. The tomato-based sauce packed with garlic, onions, bell peppers, capers, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese pair perfectly with the tender white fish. The salty creaminess of feta cheese provides an excellent balance to the tangy tomato sauce.

To complement this entrée, try serving a crisp Greek-style salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, tuna flakes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. A side of fresh sourdough or whole-grain bread will be perfect for dipping in the flavorful tomato sauce.

For a complete Mediterranean experience, pair this Greek Baked Fish Recipe with one of Greece’s most famous wine varieties – Assyrtiko. This dry white wine hints of citrus fruits with a mineral finish that compliments the acidity in the tomato-based sauce while refreshing your palate between bites.

Alternatively, you could opt for pairing this dish with beer, particularly wheat beer or pilsner style. Their light flavor profile will bring out the subtle flavors experienced in this baked fish recipe without overpowering it.

With its tangy flavors of the Mediterranean Sea and versatile pairing options ranging from wine to beer, this recipe is guaranteed to become your go-to when entertaining friends and family or when treating yourself to an easy yet satisfying dinner on a weeknight.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 Deliciously Golden and Crispy on the Outside, Tender and Juicy on the Inside
Deliciously Golden and Crispy on the Outside, Tender and Juicy on the Inside

You can definitely make this Greek Baked Fish recipe ahead of time, either the same day but a few hours before serving or even one day before. To store it, let the baked fish cool down to room temperature and then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

When reheating the leftover baked fish, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the foil or plastic and place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Let it reheat for about 10-15 minutes, until it’s heated all the way through.

It’s important to remember not to overcook the fish during reheating. Keep an eye on it so that it doesn’t dry out. If you want to add some extra moisture, drizzle a bit of olive oil on top of the fish before reheating.

This Greek Baked Fish recipe stores well in the freezer too. After your dish has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it into freezer-friendly containers or bags. Label them with the date and name of the dish and freeze for up to 3 months.

To thaw frozen Greek Baked Fish, move it from the freezer to your refrigerator one night before reheating. Remove it from any packaging and place it in a baking dish covered tightly with foil. Reheat following instructions given above.

Keep in mind that once fully thawed, reheated dishes should never be stored again in the freezer as doing so could compromise its freshness and taste.

Tips for Perfect Results

 A Seafood Feast That Even the Fussiest Eaters Will Devour
A Seafood Feast That Even the Fussiest Eaters Will Devour

If you want to nail the Greek Baked Fish recipe, follow the tips below to ensure perfect results every time.

Firstly, it is essential to make sure that the fish you are using is fresh. Frozen fish can also be used, but it should be thawed before cooking. Ensure to pat the fish dry before seasoning to help achieve a crisp outer layer.

When seasoning the fish, I’d recommend not adding too much salt as feta cheese and capers tend to be salty already. Instead, season with black pepper and garlic for additional flavor. Lemon juice is also an excellent ingredient to add as it enhances the fish’s natural flavors while balancing out any excess saltiness.

Next, take care when layering tomatoes, onions, and peppers on top of the fish fillets in the baking dish. Do not overdo it; rather, spread thinly so that they will cook evenly.

When combining the bread crumbs, garlic, parsley, oregano, chili pepper flakes in a bowl with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), it is best to use enough EVOO to lightly coat all the ingredients without making them swim in oil.

Before placing the baking dish into the oven for baking, preheat your oven to 375°F/190°C degrees. If possible, use a glass or ceramic baking dish rather than a metal one as this helps maintain even cooking temperatures throughout.

Lastly, let your baked Greek fish rest for five minutes after removing it from the oven before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon juice on top for some extra flavor.

Follow these easy tips for an amazing Greek-style baked fish recipe!

FAQ

While preparing a Greek Baked Fish recipe can be an easy task for many, there are often some questions that arise. In this section, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this dish. From ingredient substitutions to cooking times, these inquiries will help you succeed in making this amazing Greek-style baked fish recipe. So, let’s get started with our FAQ section!

What is the most popular fish to bake?

When it comes to baking fish, selecting the right type of fish is crucial. For this recipe, opting for a flaky white fish is highly recommended. Tilapia, halibut, cod, bass, grouper, haddock, catfish, and snapper are all great choices. Don’t be misled by the term “white fish” – it refers to a mild-tasting fish that is quick to cook and can be seasoned with ease.

How do you keep fish moist when baking?

One of the keys to ensuring your fish stays moist and flavorful is to brush it with olive oil, melted butter, or pesto before cooking. Adding snipped fresh or dried herbs, spice blends, minced garlic, and/or salt and pepper will add an extra layer of deliciousness to your fish. Get creative with your seasoning and make sure to have fun with it!

Is it better to bake or pan sear fish?

When it comes to cooking fish, baking is a preferable method as it doesn’t require any extra fats and prevents the loss of essential nutrients that can occur with higher-heat frying techniques.

Do you cover fish when baking in the oven?

To cook the fish, leave it uncovered in the oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until it is easily flaked with a fork.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, if you feel like taking a culinary trip to Greece, then this Greek Baked Fish Recipe is absolutely perfect for you. It’s easy to make, simple and healthy. Despite its simplicity, this recipe will leave you begging for more with its delicate balance of flavor that can only come from using the right ingredients.

Using white wine, olive oil, onion, garlic cloves, crushed tomatoes and various spices such as oregano and parsley combined together bring an amazing aroma that will turn heads at the dinner table. The combination of a crispy top crust with tender and juicy baked fish fillets underneath is truly a treat to your taste buds.

Whether you are preparing your meal for your loved ones or friends, the Greek Baked Fish Recipe is versatile enough to serve any occasion. With its amazing flavor and ease of preparation, it’s no wonder that this recipe has become increasingly popular among those who appreciate good food.

So the next time that you’re craving an easy Greek-style baked fish dish that won’t take long to prepare but won’t skimp on flavor, give this recipe a try. It will leave an everlasting impression on your palate and your guests will be waiting eagerly for your next party invite just to enjoy it again!

Greek Baked Fish

Greek Baked Fish Recipe

This fish dish has bold, Mediterranean flavours. It is also gorgeous to look at. Accompany with a good white wine and lots of crusty bread, cause the sauce is unbelievable.
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Prep Time 40 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Greek
Calories 726.3 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs fresh black grouper fillets, cut into approximately 1 1/2 inch pieces (or other fillet of your choice)
  • 2 (16 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes, juices drained
  • 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup kalamata olive, pitted and halved
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, minced
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons small capers, drained
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1/2-3/4 cup olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F.
  • Place the fish pieces in a metal baking pan.
  • Season lightly with salt.
  • Combine all the remaining ingredients, except the wine and olive oil, season, and distribute on top of fish.
  • Pour the wine and olive oil over and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the fish flakes.

Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 566gCalories: 726.3kcalCarbohydrates: 30.8gProtein: 55gFat: 41.8gSaturated Fat: 10.5gCholesterol: 117.3mgSodium: 1191mgFiber: 7.5gSugar: 4.8g
Keyword < 4 Hours, Brunch, European, Free Of..., Greek, Kid-Friendly, Low Cholesterol, One-Dish Meal, Oven
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