There's something truly magical about the simplicity and freshness packed into this Oven-Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Herbs Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels special yet effortless, with perfectly tender cod fillets nestled among bursts of juicy cherry tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and zesty lemon slices. Whether you’re cooking a weekday dinner or hosting friends, this recipe transforms a few basic ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s light, healthy, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white plate holds four pieces of raw white fish fillets, arranged in a roughly square pattern with two pieces on the top row and two on the bottom row. The fish has a smooth, slightly translucent texture with subtle lines running through each piece, showing natural layers of the flesh. The surface beneath the plate is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and visual appeal. From the tangy brightness of lemon to the subtle warmth of crushed red pepper flakes, every component helps create a beautifully balanced dish.

Cod fillets: Choose fresh, firm fillets about 1 inch thick for the best texture and flake.
Kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the fish without overpowering them.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of mild heat and aromatic depth.
Lemon slices and wedges: Brings vibrant citrus notes that brighten the entire dish.
Garlic cloves, smashed and unpeeled: Infuses gentle garlic flavor while roasting softly with the fish.
Thyme sprigs: Offers earthy herbal undertones that complement both tomato and fish.
Cherry tomatoes: Provide juicy bursts of sweetness and color contrast against the white fish.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Ensures moistness and richness while roasting, creating a pan sauce to drizzle over.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Give a subtle spicy kick that enlivens the whole plate.
Fresh parsley, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, grassy finish for extra brightness and aroma.

How to Make Oven-Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Fish

Preheat your oven to 400° and position the rack in the middle. Pat the cod fillets dry with paper towels to ensure they bake evenly and develop a nice texture. Season every side generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper—that’s where the seasoning magic begins.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Bed

In a 13" by 9" baking dish, combine lemon slices, smashed garlic cloves (don’t peel them; roasting softens their flavor wonderfully), thyme sprigs, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle it all with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes. Toss gently to coat every ingredient, spreading the mixture evenly to make a vibrant, aromatic base for your cod.

Step 3: Nestle the Cod into the Mixture

Carefully place the seasoned cod fillets right on top of the prepared bed of tomatoes and herbs. This way, the fish will absorb the bright flavors while staying moist. The tomatoes will soften and release juices, contributing to a delicious pan sauce.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of your cod. You’ll know it’s done when the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is nothing short of irresistible.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the cod is perfectly cooked, scatter the finely chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, herbal brightness. Serve each fillet with a lemon wedge for an extra squeeze of tang, and don’t forget to spoon that luscious pan sauce made of roasted tomatoes and olive oil over everything.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Herbs Recipe

The image shows a white baking dish with four raw fish fillets placed inside. The fillets are white with a light sprinkle of black pepper on top. Around the fillets, there are small red cherry tomatoes scattered, along with a few yellow lemon slices placed under and next to the fillets. A few garlic cloves and small green sprigs of herbs are also in the dish. Everything is sitting in a shallow pool of yellow olive oil. The baking dish is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or even a few basil leaves make fabulous garnishes that elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. A final crack of black pepper or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can add subtle texture and taste as well.

Side Dishes

This Oven-Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Herbs Recipe pairs beautifully with light, wholesome sides. Think fluffy quinoa, fragrant couscous, or a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Roasted baby potatoes or crusty bread work too if you want something a bit heartier.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, plate each serving on individual shallow bowls, spooning some pan sauce and tomatoes around the fish. Drizzle a bit of extra-virgin olive oil and scatter a few herb leaves on top. If you’re feeling fancy, a thin lemon twist or edible flowers can add a delicate touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover cod and tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed within 24 hours to retain the vibrant flavors and moist texture.

Freezing

While it's possible to freeze cooked cod, it’s not ideal for maintaining the original texture and flavor of this recipe. If you need to freeze, layer portions carefully in a freezer-safe container and consume within a month for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven (around 300°) to avoid drying out the fish. Alternatively, warm in a microwave at a lower power in short bursts, covering loosely to keep moisture in. Adding an extra drizzle of olive oil before reheating helps maintain juiciness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is perfect for its flaky texture and subtle flavor, you can swap in haddock, halibut, or even sea bass—just adjust cooking times according to thickness.

Is it okay to skip the crushed red pepper flakes?

Of course. The red pepper flakes add a mild kick but the dish is still flavorful and aromatic without them, especially if you prefer milder tastes.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the tomatoes, herbs, and seasoning ahead, but it’s best to bake the fish fresh. This keeps the cod moist and tender rather than getting overcooked or dry.

What sides do you recommend serving with this dish?

Light and fresh sides like quinoa, couscous, or a crisp salad enhance the bright flavors. Roasted veggies and crusty bread also complement the dish wonderfully.

How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

Look for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, an internal temp of 145° ensures the fish is cooked through but still juicy.

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Oven-Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Herbs Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite ways to enjoy seafood—it’s vibrant, easy, and delightfully healthful. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch how those simple ingredients come together for a meal that feels both comforting and fresh every single time.

Oven-Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes, Lemon, and Herbs Recipe