Easy Lemon Herb Baked Fish

Discover the secret to perfectly cooked, deliciously flaky fish with this simple yet elegantEasy Lemon Herb Baked Fishrecipe! This dish celebrates the natural delicate flavors of white fish, enhanced by a bright and aromatic blend of lemon, fresh herbs, and savory seasonings. Baking ensures a tender, moist fillet every time, without the fuss of frying or grilling. It’s an incredibly healthy, quick, and satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weekends or a light and impressive dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or new to cooking fish, this recipe promises a delightful culinary experience that’s both effortless and incredibly rewarding.

Ingredients:

For the Fish:

• 4 white fish fillets (eg, cod, tilapia, haddock, snapper, halibut, or salmon), about 6 oz (170g) each
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Lemon Herb Seasoning:

• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped)
• ½ lemon, thinly sliced ​​(plus more for serving)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Lightly grease a baking dish (large enough to hold the fish in a single layer) or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Fish:
   • Pat the fish fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere and promotes even cooking.
   • Place the dried fish fillets in the prepared baking dish.
   • Drizzle each fillet with a little olive oil, then gently rub it over the surface.
   • Season both sides of the fillets lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Apply Lemon Herb Seasoning:
   • In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, fresh chopped parsley, fresh chopped dill, dried oregano, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well to create a fragrant paste.
   • Evenly spread the lemon herb mixture over the top of each fish fillet.
   • Arrange a few thin lemon slices on top of each seasoned fillet.
4. Bake the Fish:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 12-18 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fish fillets.
   • The fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the fish. A general rule is 10 minutes per inch of thickness.
5. Serve:
   • Carefully remove the baked fish from the oven.
   • Serve immediately with extra fresh lemon wedges for squeezing.

Tips, Variations, and Storage:

• Fish Choice:This recipe works beautifully with almost any white fish. Thicker fillets like cod or halibut might take a few minutes longer to cook than thinner ones like tilapia or sole.
• Fresh vs. Dried Herbs:Fresh herbs provide a brighter, more vibrant flavor. If using dried, use about ⅓ the amount of fresh herbs.
• Spice It Up:Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a subtle kick.
• Garlic Butter:Instead of just olive oil, use 1-2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter mixed with the lemon juice and herbs for an extra rich flavor.
• Veggie Combo:For a one-pan meal, add quick-cooking vegetables like asparagus spears, broccoli florets, or sliced ​​bell peppers to the baking dish alongside the fish during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Toss them with a little olive oil and salt before hand.
• Parmesan Crust:Sprinkle a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese over each fillet during the last 5 minutes of baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.
• Storage:Baked fish is best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low oven to prevent drying.

Pairings:

• Side Dishes:Steamed rice, quinoa, couscous, roasted asparagus, sautéed spinach, a simple green salad, or roasted new potatoes are excellent choices.
• Wine:A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a light Chardonnay will beautifully complement the delicate fish and lemon-herb flavors.
• Sauce:A light squeeze of lemon, a dollop of tartar sauce, or a fresh chimichurri can enhance the dish.

Quick Info:

• Prep Time:10 minutes
• Cook Time:12-18 minutes
• Total Time:22-28 minutes
• Servings:4
• Kitchen:American / Mediterranean-inspired
• Effort Level:Easy