Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean with these 20 mouthwatering fish recipes. From grilled sea bass with a zesty lemon and herb marinade, to baked cod smothered in garlic butter and topped with juicy tomatoes and olives, each dish is infused with the region’s signature blend of bright citrus flavors, aromatic herbs, and savory spices.
Whether you’re looking for quick and easy weeknight meals or impressive show-stopping dishes for special occasions, this collection of Mediterranean fish recipes has got you covered. With a range of cooking methods and ingredient combinations to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice as you explore the rich flavors and traditions of this beloved culinary region.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 delicious recipes, highlighting the key ingredients, techniques, and tips that will help you recreate them at home. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to indulge in a flavorful journey across the Mediterranean!
Grilled Mediterranean Sea Bass with Lemon and Herbs
This refreshing recipe brings together the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, featuring succulent sea bass grilled to perfection with a zesty lemon-herb marinade. Perfect for a warm evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place sea bass fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them.
4. Let marinate for 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
6. Grill sea bass for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives
This flavorful and aromatic dish combines the richness of garlic butter with the sweetness of tomatoes and olives, perfectly complementing the delicate taste of cod. A simple yet impressive main course that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter. Spread evenly over each cod fillet.
5. Top each cod fillet with tomato halves and olive slices.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cod is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean-Style Pan-Seared Salmon with Feta
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this pan-seared salmon recipe, featuring crumbled feta and a hint of lemon. This dish is perfect for a quick and elegant dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the salmon fillets with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan, then sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While the salmon cooks, mix together crumbled feta cheese and lemon juice in a small bowl.
5. Remove the salmon from the pan and top each fillet with the feta mixture.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pot Mediterranean Fish Stew with Saffron
This hearty stew is a flavorful representation of the Mediterranean coast, with tender fish, aromatic spices, and saffron-infused broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed Mediterranean vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add vegetables, broth, water, saffron, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Swordfish Skewers with Tzatziki
Lemon Garlic Swordfish Skewers with Tzatziki Recipe
This refreshing recipe combines the flavors of lemon, garlic, and swordfish, served with a cooling tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound swordfish steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tzatziki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add swordfish cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread 3-4 swordfish pieces onto each skewer.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until swordfish is cooked through.
6. Serve with tzatziki sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Baked Mediterranean Red Snapper with Artichokes
This recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the delicate taste of red snapper, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and healthy. This baked fish recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the red snapper fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together artichoke hearts, olives, capers, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice.
5. Spoon the mixture evenly over each fish fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Harissa-Glazed Halibut with Couscous
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of halibut with the spicy kick of harissa. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup couscous
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup harissa
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook couscous according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together harissa, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Place halibut fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the harissa glaze evenly over each fillet.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Serve with cooked couscous and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Salad with Chickpeas and Olives
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean in this refreshing tuna salad, featuring chickpeas, olives, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, chickpeas, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Herb-Crusted Branzino with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and elegant main course, this dish combines the richness of branzino fish with a crust of fragrant herbs and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 branzino fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the branzino fillets on a plate or tray and brush with the herb mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the bell pepper and squash slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Place the herb-crusted branzino fillets on the baking sheet with the roasted vegetables and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Style Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Onions
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with this simple and flavorful baked fish recipe. Flaky white fish is infused with the sweetness of caramelized onions, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the zest of oregano.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or mild-flavored)
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sliced onions, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the onion mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Place fish fillets on top of the onions.
5. Drizzle tomatoes over the fish, followed by a sprinkle of oregano.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Sardines Stuffed with Herbs and Breadcrumbs
Elevate the humble sardine with a flavorful stuffing that combines Mediterranean herbs and crunchy breadcrumbs. This easy-to-make appetizer or snack is perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 12 sardines in water, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together parsley, oregano, lemon zest, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each sardine with the herb mixture, dividing it evenly among the fish.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the stuffed sardines.
5. Place the sardines on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown and the sardines are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pan-Fried Sea Bream with Capers and White Wine Sauce
Pan-Fried Sea Bream with Capers and White Wine Sauce Recipe
Sea bream is a delicate fish that pairs perfectly with the brightness of capers and the richness of white wine. This simple recipe elevates this flavorful combination to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bream fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sea bream fillets under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to low, add white wine to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Stir in capers, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve the pan-fried sea bream with the white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Oregano Grilled Mackerel with Quinoa
This refreshing recipe combines the bold flavors of mackerel with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of oregano, all on top of a nutritious quinoa base.
Ingredients:
– 4 mackerel fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Place mackerel fillets in a shallow dish and brush the lemon-oregano mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill mackerel for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve atop quinoa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Fish Tacos with Yogurt Dill Sauce
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean in these vibrant fish tacos, topped with a refreshing yogurt dill sauce and crunchy slaw. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Yogurt Dill Sauce (see below)
– Slaw (see below)
Yogurt Dill Sauce:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Slaw:
– 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together fish, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled fish, Yogurt Dill Sauce, and Slaw.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato-Braised Monkfish with Kalamata Olives
Experience the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with this succulent monkfish dish, slow-cooked in a flavorful tomato and olive sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 monkfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season monkfish with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high. Add onions; cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, olives, and oregano. Stir to combine.
6. Place monkfish on top of the tomato mixture. Cover skillet with a lid or foil.
7. Transfer skillet to preheated oven; braise for 20-25 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Shrimp and White Fish Paella
This flavorful paella recipe combines succulent garlic shrimp with tender white fish, savory spices, and aromatic saffron-infused rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 medium white fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked Spanish rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and fish; cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Add rice, water, saffron mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean-Style Fish Cakes with Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and refreshing take on traditional fish cakes. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a tangy aioli for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Aioli (store-bought or homemade, see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine flaked fish, panko breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve warm with aioli and chopped parsley (if using).
Homemade Aioli Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Whole Roasted Dorade with Citrus and Fennel
Whole Roasted Dorade with Citrus and Fennel: A Bright and Flaky Delight
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of dorade, enhanced by the sweetness of citrus and the anise-like charm of fennel. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole dorade (about 2 lbs), scaled and gutted
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 bulbs of fennel, trimmed and sliced into thin wedges
– 4 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the dorade under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, orange segments, and fennel slices.
4. Stuff the mixture inside the fish’s cavity, then season the exterior with salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
6. Roast the dorade in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pistachio-Crusted Mahi-Mahi with Pomegranate Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and visually stunning dish, featuring crispy pistachio-crusted mahi-mahi paired with a sweet and tangy pomegranate glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pistachios
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, blend pistachios, breadcrumbs, and olive oil until coarsely chopped.
3. Season mahi-mahi fillets with salt and pepper. Coat each fillet evenly with the pistachio mixture, pressing gently.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and pomegranate juice in a small bowl.
6. Brush the glaze over the mahi-mahi during the last 2 minutes of baking.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Mediterranean Seafood Orzo with Lemon and Dill
Brighten up your plate with this vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired seafood orzo dish, bursting with the freshness of lemon and dill. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook orzo according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add seafood and garlic; cook until seafood is pink and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in lemon juice and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked orzo and seafood mixture. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean with these 20 delectable fish recipes, perfect for every occasion. From grilled sea bass to baked cod, and from tuna salad to whole roasted dorade, each dish showcases the region’s signature blend of herbs, spices, and citrus. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, these Mediterranean-inspired recipes are sure to delight. With options ranging from simple and easy to more complex and adventurous, there’s something for every taste and skill level.
