Baked Cod with Vegetables (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal)

Baked cod fish is one of my favorite go-to meals when I want something light, fresh, and effortless. In this version, the fish isn’t buried in sauce or weighed down—it’s surrounded by thinly sliced seasonal vegetables, just enough to complement the cod without overpowering it.

What makes it special is the simple fresh herb marinade—lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, parsley, basil, or dill—so the cod stays tender, juicy, and full of Mediterranean flavor. Everything cooks evenly in one pan and finishes together in just 30 minutes. It’s a beautiful, wholesome meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients (What You’ll Need)

All the fresh, colorful ingredients you need for this one-pan Mediterranean baked cod—simple, wholesome, and ready in 30 minutes.

• Wild cod fillets: Mild, flaky, and tender—perfect for soaking up the fresh herb marinade.

• Zucchini: Sliced thin so it roasts quickly and evenly alongside the fish.

• Red and yellow bell peppers
  Add color, sweetness, and a soft roasted texture.

• Cherry tomatoes: Burst as they bake, adding juiciness and natural sweetness.

• Shallots: Milder than onions, they soften beautifully in the oven and add a gentle sweetness.

• Garlic cloves: Thinly sliced for a subtle flavor that infuses the oil and vegetables.

• Lemon (zest and slices): Brightens everything and adds a fresh, citrusy aroma.

• Olive oil: Helps everything roast beautifully and adds richness.

• Fresh parsley: Clean and herby—great for the marinade and garnish.

• Dill or basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic note that pairs beautifully with cod.

• Sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes: The essentials for seasoning—simple, balanced, and easy to adjust to taste.

• Optional: Flaky sea salt: For a beautiful finishing touch right before serving.

FAQ – Baked Cod with Vegetables

• How long do I bake cod fish, and at what temperature?
  Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
• Do I need to marinate the cod?
  No long marinating needed! The fresh herb mixture adds plenty of flavor, and since cod is a delicate fish, it soaks up the seasoning quickly. You can let it sit while you prep the vegetables—about 10 minutes is enough.
• Should I cut the vegetables thin?
  Yes! Thinly sliced vegetables ensure they roast evenly and cook at the same time as the fish. This helps everything finish together without over- or under-cooking.
• Do I need to cover the dish while baking?
  No need to cover it. Leaving it uncovered helps the vegetables caramelize slightly and keeps the fish from becoming too soft or steamed.
• Where should I place it in the oven?
  Bake it on the middle rack for even heat distribution and the best roasting results.

What to Serve with Baked Cod and Vegetables

Tender cod with perfectly roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and lemon—simple, vibrant, and full of Mediterranean flavor.

This dish is a complete meal on its own—light, nourishing, and full of Mediterranean flavor. But if you’d like to round it out or make it a little heartier, here are a few delicious ideas:

• Greek-style rice or lemon rice pilaf: Adds a warm, comforting grain to soak up the juices from the cod and vegetables.

• Vermicelli rice or orzo: Light and neutral, a great complement to the herby lemon flavors in the dish.

• A large, fresh salad: Something green and crisp with cucumbers, olives, or a lemon-oregano dressing balances the warmth of the roasted elements.

• Warm pita or crusty bread: For sopping up that flavorful olive oil and tomato juice at the bottom of the pan.

Whether you keep it simple or build it out, this dish is easy to customize and perfect for any night of the week.