Oven Baked Fish with Herbs and Lemon

Oven Baked Fish with Herbs and Lemon is a simple, elegant dish that will impress anyone at the table. With its fragrant combination of fresh herbs, lemon, and a drizzle of olive oil, this recipe results in a perfectly cooked fish that is light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, the best part is the lack of strong fish odors in the kitchen, making it a stress-free way to enjoy seafood at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This oven-baked fish is not only tasty but also light and healthy. The fish is cooked to tender perfection, infused with the fresh flavors of lemon and herbs. By baking the fish with its cavity stuffed with aromatic herbs and lemon slices, you’re ensuring the fish remains moist, juicy, and full of flavor. With minimal preparation and cooking time, this recipe is a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal. The simplicity of the ingredients lets the natural flavors of the fish shine through, making it a dish anyone can appreciate.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 whole fish (400-600 grams, or 12 to 16 oz each), cleaned and scaled

• Olive oil (for drizzling)

• A large handful of fresh herbs (such as rosemary, bay leaf, thyme, cilantro, lemongrass, or your choice of herbs)

• 1 large lemon, thinly sliced

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Start by washing the fish and patting them dry with paper towels. Alternatively, place the fish uncovered in the fridge for a couple of hours to dry out.

2. Preheat the oven to 325°F (220°C).

3. Lightly oil a baking tray or cover it with baking paper for easier cleanup.

4. Score the fish skin in two or three places on each side. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts, just through the skin and not into the flesh. This will help the steam escape while the fish bakes and ensure the fish stays firm.

5. Sprinkle salt and pepper inside the fish cavity. Drizzle a little olive oil inside the cavity as well. Then, layer the lemon slices and half of the fresh herbs inside.

6. Season the outside of the fish generously with salt and pepper. Lay the fish on the baking sheet, and if you have extra lemon slices, place them under the fish for added flavor.

7. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the fish and pop it in the oven.

8. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the size of the fish. To check for doneness, gently insert a fork or knife into the flesh of the fish—if it flakes away from the bone easily, it’s ready. Remember that the fish will continue to cook after it’s removed from the oven, so be sure to take it out just before it’s fully cooked to avoid overcooking.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 17 minutes

Variations

• Herb Variations: Feel free to mix and match different herbs based on what you have available. Dill, parsley, or tarragon are excellent choices.

• Vegetables: Add thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes around the fish for extra flavor and a more complete meal.

• Lemon Substitute: If you prefer a different citrus flavor, you can swap the lemon slices for lime or orange slices for a unique twist.

• Different Fish: While this recipe works wonderfully with whole fish like bass or snapper, you can also use fillets. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Garlic: For an extra savory depth, you can add a few crushed garlic cloves into the cavity of the fish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This baked fish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the fish moist, cover it with foil before refrigerating.

• Reheating: Reheat the fish gently in a preheated oven at 325°F (220°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in a covered pan over low heat to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other whole fish like trout, snapper, or cod. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the fish.

2. Do I need to stuff the fish with herbs and lemon?

While stuffing the fish enhances the flavor, it’s not necessary. You can simply season the fish with salt, pepper, and olive oil if you prefer a simpler preparation.

3. How do I know when the fish is done?

The fish is done when the flesh easily flakes away from the bone. You can check by gently inserting a fork or knife into the thickest part of the fish.

4. Can I bake the fish at a higher temperature?

Baking at a higher temperature can cook the fish more quickly, but it may cause it to dry out. It’s best to bake it at a moderate temperature like 325°F (220°C) to ensure the fish stays tender.

5. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but the flavor will be slightly different. Use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh herbs.

6. How do I prepare the fish if it’s not scaled?

If your fish isn’t scaled, you’ll need to remove the scales before cooking. Use a fish scaler or the back of a knife to scrape the scales off, starting from the tail and moving toward the head.

7. Can I make this recipe in advance?

The fish is best cooked fresh, but you can prep it in advance by seasoning and stuffing it with herbs and lemon slices. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

9. Can I add other seasonings to the fish?

Feel free to get creative with your seasoning. A bit of smoked paprika, chili flakes, or even a dash of white wine can add an extra layer of flavor.

10. Can I serve this with a side dish?

This fish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a light salad. You can also serve it with a side of mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Fish with Herbs and Lemon is the perfect combination of simplicity, elegance, and flavor. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is ideal for anyone looking for a quick yet impressive meal. The aromatic herbs and lemon infuse the fish with freshness, creating a dish that is light, moist, and delicious. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or an experienced home chef, this recipe is a winner for any occasion.