Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod Recipe

If you’re searching for the perfect balance of flavor, simplicity, and nourishment all in one meal, you’ll fall head over heels for this Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod! Bursting with vibrant veggies, briny olives, and aromatic herbs—all gently simmered together in a single skillet—it makes healthy weeknight cooking a breeze without sacrificing that sunny Mediterranean magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod comes together with just a handful of humble yet powerhouse ingredients. Each one adds its own pop of taste, color, or sparkle—so don’t be tempted to skip a thing!

• Olive oil: The backbone of Mediterranean cooking—choose extra virgin for the most flavor and richness.
• Onion: Adds a gentle sweetness and soft texture to balance the savory base.
• Fennel: Brings a subtle, almost anise-like aroma that brightens the whole dish.
• Garlic: An essential aromatic that perfumes the sauce and deepens every bite.
• Canned diced tomatoes & fresh tomatoes: The combination ensures you get both saucy richness and bursts of juicy freshness.
• Kale: Adds color, heartiness, and an earthy backdrop that soaks up all that saucy goodness.
• Water: Just enough to let the veggies stew and meld beautifully.
• Crushed red pepper: Use a pinch for gentle warmth or a little more if you love heat.
• Fresh or dried oregano: Mediterranean herb magic! Fresh is best, but dried works perfectly if that’s what you have.
• Oil-cured black olives: These bring a briny punch and rich, meaty texture—totally worth seeking out.
• Cod: The tender, lean fish at the heart of the dish. Make sure it’s cut into portions for even cooking.
• Salt and black pepper: These help every flavor pop—don’t skip the seasoning!
• Fennel seeds (optional): Want even more aromatic zing? Sprinkle these on the fish.
• Orange zest: Just a hint lifts the entire dish with citrusy brightness.
• Garnishes (fresh oregano, fennel fronds, extra orange zest, olive oil): These finishing touches make your pan of cod sing!

Variations

One of my favorite things about Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod is how flexible it is—think of it as your canvas and get creative! Here are a few swaps and additions that make this meal truly yours.

• Swap the greens: No kale? Try baby spinach, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a slightly peppery kick.
• Use a different fish: Haddock, pollock, or even halibut all cook beautifully with these Mediterranean flavors.
• Add extra veggies: Bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or zucchini slide right into the pan for bonus color and texture.
• Make it spicy: Stir in more crushed red pepper or a minced chili if you crave a fiery boost.
• Go grainy: Serve over couscous, farro, or brown rice to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce.

How to Make Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod

Step 1: Build the Flavorful Vegetable Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat—choose one with high sides if you have it, as there’s plenty of saucy goodness to come! Add the sliced onion, fennel, and chopped garlic. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper (about 1/4 teaspoon of each), then let everything gently soften for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. This mellow, aromatic trio forms the backbone of the dish.

Step 2: Layer in Veggies & Simmer

Next, add both the canned diced tomatoes and the juicy fresh tomatoes to the pan along with the shredded kale and water. Stir well to blend those flavors together and let the mixture cook for about 12 minutes. As it simmers, the veggies melt down, the kale wilts, and your kitchen starts to smell like a rustic trattoria by the coast!

Step 3: Season & Add Olives

Sprinkle in that pinch of crushed red pepper for gentle heat, add your fresh (or dried) oregano, and toss in the oil-cured black olives. Give it all a loving stir—this is when those signature Mediterranean notes really come alive!

Step 4: Season & Nestle the Cod

Pat the cod fillets dry, then season them lightly on both sides with salt, pepper, orange zest, and fennel seeds if you’re using them. Carefully nestle each piece into the bubbling vegetable mixture. Pop a lid on the skillet and let the fish gently steam and soak up all the saucy flavors for about 10 minutes, or until just cooked through and flaking tenderly.

Step 5: Finish & Garnish

Off the heat, finish your Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod with a shower of fresh oregano leaves, feathery fennel fronds, extra orange zest, and a generous drizzle of good olive oil. Serve immediately, letting those vibrant garnishes sing atop the tender fish and savory sauce!

How to Serve Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod

Garnishes

A flurry of fresh herbs—think oregano leaves, feathery fennel fronds, or a swirl of freshly grated orange zest—brings this dish to life. Finish each serving with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few extra olives for irresistible color and Mediterranean flair.

Side Dishes

While Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod is a satisfying meal on its own, it’s dreamy spooned over fluffy couscous, farro, or a simple grain that can soak up all those pan juices. Add a piece of crusty sourdough or focaccia for sopping up every last bit of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For casual family dinners, serve straight from the skillet at the table for a rustic, homey effect. Cooking for guests? Plate each fillet over a swirl of sauce, scatter on your toppings, and add a wedge of orange or lemon on the side. You can also serve it “mezze-style” as part of a colorful Mediterranean spread!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover cod and veggies (with sauce!) to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to!

Freezing

If you want to freeze Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod, do so before adding the final garnishes. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.

Reheating

Gently reheat the cod and sauce together either in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, being careful not to overcook the fish. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce, and top with fresh garnishes just before serving.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Trust me—a steaming skillet of Easy One Pan Mediterranean Cod, brimming with color and coastal flavor, will bring a little sunshine to your table on even the busiest nights. It’s cozy, wholesome, and guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite. Give it a try, and let its fresh, vibrant simplicity win you over!

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