If you are craving a dish that feels fresh, vibrant, and effortlessly elegant, the Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, flaky cod infused with bright lemon notes, roasted cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, and a salty pop from briny capers. This recipe is a celebration of simple, quality ingredients coming together to create a symphony of flavors that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressive enough for guests. It’s light, healthy, and packed with Mediterranean charm that will warm you from the inside out.

4 fresh cod fillets with smooth, pale white flesh arranged neatly on a clean, light wooden surface; bright red halved cherry tomatoes scattered artistically around the fish, showcasing their juicy, glossy texture; small bowls containing golden olive oil and melted butter with a silky sheen; fresh lemon slices and a small dish of fresh lemon juice adding vibrant yellow accents; minced garlic cloves displayed in a tiny rustic bowl; a handful of deep green chopped fresh parsley and basil leaves sprinkled around for pops of color and freshness; a small pile of capers with their olive-green, briny appearance; salts and black peppercorns casually spread to add texture; a sprinkle of dried basil flakes showing fine, earthy tones; a small bowl of lemon pepper seasoning with its coarse texture visible; all ingredients arranged with ample negative space on a neutral, textured background that enhances the natural colors and textures; soft, natural lighting highlighting the freshness and vivid hues, subtle shadows adding depth and dimension, styled with casual elegance and clean presentation; overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the basics for this recipe is a joy because every ingredient plays a vital role in making this dish spectacular. Whether it’s the cod’s delicate texture, the juicy tomatoes that bring beautiful color, or the zingy capers adding complexity, these simple components combine perfectly to brighten your plate and your palate.

4 cod fillets (5-6 ounces each): Choose fresh, firm cod for the best flaky texture and mild flavor that absorbs the seasonings beautifully.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: This adds a refreshing citrus tang that brightens the whole dish.
1 tablespoon olive oil (+ 1 teaspoon, divided): Olive oil enhances richness and helps roast the tomatoes to perfection.
2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved): Their natural sweetness intensifies while roasting, balancing the savoriness of the fish and capers.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic provides a flavorful foundation without overpowering the delicate fish.
¼ teaspoon dried basil: Adds a subtle herbal note that complements the tomatoes and fish.
2 tablespoons capers: These give a delightful briny punch, adding depth and interest to every bite.
1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning: A perfect blend of citrus and spice to elevate the cod’s mild flavor.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
2 tablespoons butter (melted): Drizzled over the cod before baking, it creates a luscious finish and keeps the fish moist.
Chopped fresh parsley (and basil for serving, optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness as a garnish, rounding out the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Cod

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While it heats up, toss the cod fillets with fresh lemon juice and a teaspoon of olive oil. This simple step infuses the fish with brightness and ensures it won’t dry out while baking. Pop the cod in the refrigerator to chill and marinate briefly, allowing those flavors to soak in while you prepare your tomatoes.

Step 2: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes and Capers

In a baking dish, combine halved cherry tomatoes with the remaining olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, capers, lemon pepper seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. The garlic and basil add savory depth, while capers bring a delightful salty tang that contrasts with the tomatoes’ sweetness. Roast this mixture for about 10 minutes—this allows the tomatoes to soften and begin releasing their juices, creating an irresistible base for the cod.

Step 3: Nestle the Cod Among the Tomatoes

Take your cod out of the fridge and gently nestle the fillets right into the bed of roasted cherry tomatoes and capers. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the fish. This small touch of butter locks in moisture and adds a silky richness that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Flaky

Bake everything together for 11 to 14 minutes. You’ll want to watch closely and remove the fish as soon as it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork—that’s the hallmark of perfectly cooked cod. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy. If you want to be precise, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and, if you like, fresh basil leaves over the fish and tomatoes. This final flourish not only adds a pop of bright green color but also layers in fresh, herbal aromas that make this dish even more delightful.

How to Serve Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like chopped parsley and basil perfectly complement this dish without overwhelming the natural flavors. You can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing at the table.

Side Dishes

To make the meal complete, consider serving this baked cod alongside fluffy couscous, creamy polenta, or a simple garlic roasted vegetable medley. These sides soak up the delicious juices from the roasted tomatoes and capers, making every bite satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, plate the cod fillets on a large platter with the roasted cherry tomatoes artistically arranged around them. Scatter fresh herbs over the entire dish and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve with a crisp white wine that complements the light Mediterranean flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the baked cod with cherry tomatoes and capers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, maintaining much of its freshness and flavor.

Freezing

This dish isn’t ideal for freezing since the texture of the cooked fish and juicy tomatoes can change after thawing. For best results, prepare fresh or store leftovers in the fridge only.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat gently in a low oven or microwave, covering the dish to retain moisture. Avoid overheating to prevent the cod from drying out. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after reheating can brighten flavors that may have mellowed.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cod is ideal because of its mild flavor and flaky texture, you can try haddock, pollock, or even halibut. Just adjust cooking times as needed for thickness.

Are capers necessary in this recipe?

Capers add a unique salty tang that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes, but if you don’t have them on hand, you can omit them or substitute with green olives for a similar briny note.

Can I prepare this dish without butter?

Yes, you can skip the melted butter for a lighter version. Simply drizzle a bit more olive oil over the cod before baking to keep it moist and flavorful.

How do I know when the cod is perfectly cooked?

Look for opaque white flesh that flakes easily with a fork. Overcooked cod will be dry and rubbery, so aim to remove it from the oven as soon as it’s just cooked through.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s a wonderful choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Cod with Cherry Tomatoes and Capers Recipe has quickly become a beloved favorite for good reason. It’s the perfect balance of bright, fresh, and comforting flavors that come together with minimal fuss but maximum taste. Whether you’re new to baking fish or a seasoned cook looking to add a new star recipe to your dinner rotation, give this one a try. Your taste buds—and your dinner guests—will thank you!