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Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated not only for its tantalizing flavors but also for its numerous health benefits. This vibrant culinary tradition, rooted in the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, emphasizes fresh ingredients, wholesome meals, and a balanced diet. Characterized by an abundance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats, Mediterranean cooking provides a feast for the senses while supporting various aspects of health, including heart health, weight management, and overall well-being.

Mediterranean Baked Snapper

Discover the joys of Mediterranean cooking with this delicious Mediterranean Baked Snapper recipe. Emphasizing fresh, wholesome ingredients, this dish combines flaky snapper with vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and extra virgin olive oil for a meal that is both healthy and flavorful. Learn how to select fresh fish, create a savory marinade, and bake to perfection while enjoying the numerous health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Perfect for families and gatherings, this recipe brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and loaded with nutrients!

Ingredients
  

2 whole snapper (cleaned and scaled, about 1.5 to 2 pounds each)

4 tablespoons olive oil

2 lemons (1 sliced into rounds and 1 juiced)

4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced)

1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)

1 red onion (thinly sliced)

1 cup Kalamata olives (pitted and halved)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Prepare the Snapper: Rinse the snapper under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make 3-4 diagonal slashes on each side of the fish to allow for even cooking and flavor absorption.

      Create the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

        Marinate the Fish: Place the snapper in a large baking dish. Pour the marinade evenly over the fish, making sure to coat them thoroughly, including inside the slashes. Allow the fish to marinate for about 15 minutes.

          Assemble the Veggies: In a separate bowl, combine the sliced lemon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives. Drizzle with a little olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to combine.

            Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the marinated snapper in the center of the baking dish. Scatter the vegetable mixture around the fish evenly.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the fish to brown slightly.

                Check for Doneness: The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If necessary, cook for an additional 5 minutes.

                  Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

                    Enjoy: Serve the Mediterranean Baked Snapper with crusty bread or over a bed of couscous for a complete meal!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings