3 Easy Fish Recipes With Tomatoes

Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy dinner fish idea? 

Fish paired with juicy, flavorful tomatoes is the ultimate combo! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are here to make your life easier and tastier. 

From pan-seared perfection to Mediterranean baked goodness and a roasted dish bursting with flavor, these easy-to-follow recipes use simple ingredients you probably already have. 

These dishes are packed with fresh flavors and ready in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. 

Dive into these three easy fish recipes that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why do Fish and Tomatoes Work So Well Together? 

The natural acidity of tomatoes enhances fish’s mild, slightly sweet flavor, creating a refreshing and comforting balance. 

Tomatoes also release their juices when cooked, creating a light sauce that keeps the fish moist and flavorful.

1. Pan-seared fish with Tomatoes and Olives

This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the briny flavor of olives with the natural sweetness of tomatoes. 

It’s a healthy, flavorful meal that works for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 4 skinless bass or cod fillets
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 onion, finely sliced
• 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, quartered
• ¼ cup white wine (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ⅓ cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil

Instructions:

1. In a large nonstick pan, heat the olive oil over a medium-high flame.
2. Use both pepper and salt to season the fish on each side.
3. Place the fillets in the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown. 
4. Flip carefully and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
5. After taking the fish out of the pan, put it aside.
6. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
7. Add the cherry tomatoes, gently pressing them with a spoon to release their juices.
8. If you’re using white wine, pour it in now. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.
9. Add the lemon juice and olives. Stir everything together.
10. Return the fish to the pan, spooning the sauce over it. 
11. To allow the flavors to blend, cook for two to three minutes.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
13. Serve this with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or pair it with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

2. Mediterranean Baked Fish with Tomatoes and Capers

This baked fish recipe is as simple as layering ingredients and letting the oven do the work.

The capers and spices add a tangy kick to the sweetness of tomatoes, making this dish flavorful and aromatic.

Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, diced (or 3 cups canned diced tomatoes)
• 10 garlic cloves, chopped
• 1½ teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1½ tablespoons capers
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• ⅓ cup golden raisins
• 1½ pounds white fish fillets (such as cod or halibut)
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley or mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped red onion and cook until golden, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, garlic, coriander, paprika, cumin, cayenne (if using), capers, and golden raisins—season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Boil the mixture for fifteen minutes or so, stirring now and then.
6. Meanwhile, pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
7. Spread half of the tomato mixture in the bottom of a baking dish. Lay the seasoned fish fillets on top.
8. Drizzle the lemon juice over the fish, sprinkle the lemon zest, and pour the remaining tomato mixture on top.
9. The fish should flake readily with a fork after baking fifteen to eighteen minutes.
10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or mint before serving.
11. This recipe pairs beautifully with couscous, a green salad, or steamed vegetables. 
12. The combination of capers and golden raisins provides an unexpected yet delightful flavor.

3. Roasted Fish with Cherry Tomatoes

For a quick, minimal-fuss dinner, this roasted fish dish is perfect. The cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, and the fish cooks to tender perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved (about 2 to 2½ cups)
• ½ medium red onion or shallot, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Olive oil
• 1 to 1½ pounds haddock fillets (or cod or salmon), cut into 4 portions
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herb seasoning
• ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
• Pinch of red chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh basil, torn

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Combine the halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, and a drizzle of olive oil in a mixing bowl. Toss to coat.
3. Arrange the fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper—season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and paprika. Sprinkle with chili flakes if you like a bit of heat.
4. Scatter the tomato mixture around the fish fillets on the baking sheet.
5. Zest the lemon over the fish, then squeeze the juice evenly.
6. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

This dish pairs well with roasted potatoes or a light salad. The roasted tomatoes and garlic create a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the fish beautifully.

Tips for Cooking Fish Perfectly:

• Use fresh fish: Fresh fish always tastes better. Choose firm fillets that don’t smell “fishy.”
• Don’t overcook: Fish cooks quickly, so watch it. Overcooking can make it dry. The rule of thumb is about 10 minutes of cooking per inch of thickness.
• Season generously: Fish benefits from bold flavors, so don’t be afraid to season it well.
• Use a meat thermometer: For precision, cook fish to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Last Words: Easy Fish Recipes 

These three fish recipes with tomatoes are simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. 

Whether cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, these dishes deliver bold flavors with minimal effort. 

So, next time you’re in the mood for something light and flavorful, try these recipes. Let me know which recipe you loved the most!