Baked Fish with Lemon and Herbs – Light & Flavorful Dinner

This Baked Fish with Lemon and Herbs is a light, healthy, and flavorful dinner that comes together quickly. Fresh fish fillets are baked with aromatic herbs, garlic, and bright lemon for a meal that’s perfect for weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Light, healthy, and flavorful
• Minimal cleanup with one baking tray
• Perfect for family dinners or meal prep
• Pairs beautifully with vegetables, rice, or potatoes

Ingredients

• 4 white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or haddock), about 6 oz each
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• Optional garnish: fresh parsley or dill

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
2. Pat fish fillets dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano.
4. Brush the herb mixture over both sides of the fish fillets.
5. Place fish on the prepared baking sheet and top with lemon slices.
6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
8. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Tips & Variations

• Use skin-on fillets for extra flavor if desired
• Swap herbs: basil or tarragon works well
• Add cherry tomatoes or asparagus to the tray for a one-pan meal
• Drizzle a little extra lemon juice before serving for brightness
• Serve over quinoa or couscous for a complete meal

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days
• Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes
• Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent dryness
• Best enjoyed fresh due to the delicate texture of fish
• Do not freeze cooked fish; freeze raw fillets separately instead

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with steamed rice or roasted baby potatoes
• Pair with sautéed or roasted vegetables
• Add a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving
• Garnish with fresh dill, parsley, or chives

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fish works best for baking?

White, flaky fish like cod, tilapia, haddock, or sole work best.

Can I bake frozen fish?

Yes, but thaw first for even cooking.

How do I prevent fish from sticking?

Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet and pat fillets dry.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, naturally gluten-free.

Ready to Make It?

This Baked Fish with Lemon and Herbs is light, healthy, and full of fresh flavor. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep, it’s simple yet elegant. Save this recipe for a quick, delicious dinner that everyone will love.

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