Mediterranean Cod with Olives & Capers
If you love light, refreshing seafood dishes that are easy to make yet full of flavor, this Mediterranean Cod with Olives and Capers is going to become one of your go-to meals.
It’s the kind of dish that instantly makes you feel like you’re sitting by the sea, soaking in the sun, and enjoying the simple beauty of fresh ingredients coming together in perfect balance.
What makes this recipe so special is the way it combines tender, flaky cod with the briny richness of olives, the sharp tang of capers, and a hint of citrusy freshness. It’s not heavy or complicated, just clean, vibrant, and satisfying.
The best part is that you can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for weeknights when you want something wholesome but not time-consuming.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 cod fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- 2 tbsp capers, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium)
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cod
Pat the cod fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper. This simple step helps the fish sear better and ensures it absorbs all the Mediterranean flavors later on.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should just release its aroma.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Flavor Base
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices. Add the sliced olives, capers, oregano, and broth. Give it a good stir, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Cod
Gently place the seasoned cod fillets into the pan, nestling them into the sauce. Spoon some of the tomato-olive mixture over the top of each fillet. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Fresh Herbs
Once the fish is cooked through, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley. The lemon adds a bright touch that perfectly balances the salty and savory flavors in the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Mediterranean Cod straight from the pan with extra lemon wedges on the side. It pairs wonderfully with couscous, rice, or a simple salad. If you prefer a lighter option, you can serve it with steamed vegetables or a crusty piece of bread to soak up the sauce.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Cod
- Use fresh cod if possible. It makes a big difference in texture and flavor, but frozen cod works fine too if thawed properly.
- Don’t overcook the fish. Cod cooks quickly, and overcooking can make it dry. Once it flakes easily with a fork, it’s ready.
- Customize it. You can add a handful of spinach or artichoke hearts to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
This Mediterranean Cod with Olives and Capers is a dish that feels fancy without the fuss. It’s healthy, fresh, and full of bold flavors that make each bite incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself to something wholesome and flavorful, this recipe is a perfect choice.
