Mediterranean-Style Baked Fish

Ingredients:

• 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod, sea bass, or snapper)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup sliced black olives (pitted)
• ¼ cup drained capers
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Fresh dill (optional, for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat.
2. Season the Fish:
   Lightly season both sides of the fish fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Build the Dish:
   In a baking dish, drizzle the olive oil and spread the minced garlic across the bottom.
   Place the fish fillets in the dish.
   Top and surround the fillets with cherry tomatoes, olives, capers, and sliced red onion.
   Lay the lemon slices over the fish and sprinkle red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
4. Bake:
   Drizzle a touch more olive oil over everything.
   Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Once out of the oven, finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, and dill if desired.
   Serve warm with crusty bread, steamed rice, or a crisp side salad for a fresh Mediterranean-inspired meal.