One-Pan Mediterranean Cod with Wine & Herbs

A light, flavor-packed one-pan dinner that’s perfect for weeknights.

If you're looking for a simple, elegant dish that delivers big flavor without a lot of fuss, this Mediterranean Skillet Cod is a must-try. Inspired by bright coastal flavors, it’s loaded with briny olives, sweet grape tomatoes, and tender artichokes—all brought together with fresh herbs and a splash of white wine. It’s the kind of dish that feels special but comes together in under 30 minutes.

I love serving this on its own for a light, clean meal, but it’s also wonderful over a bed of greens, rice, or even a warm grain, like farro.

Side Dish Suggestions:

Light & Fresh:

• Lemon-Herb Couscous – Fluffy couscous with chopped parsley, lemon zest, and a drizzle of olive oil.

• Simple Arugula Salad – Tossed with shaved Parmesan, pine nuts, and a lemon vinaigrette.

• Cucumber-Dill Yogurt Salad – Cool, creamy, and tangy—adds a refreshing contrast to the warm cod dish.

Hearty & Rustic:

• Garlicky Roasted Potatoes – Crispy on the outside, soft inside; perfect for soaking up the pan sauce.

• Warm Farro with Feta & Herbs – Nutty grains mixed with crumbled feta, chopped mint, and lemon.

• Oven-Roasted Asparagus – Tossed with olive oil and finished with a squeeze of lemon and flaky salt.

Mediterranean-Inspired:

• Grilled Zucchini & Eggplant – A smoky, tender veggie pairing fits right in.

• Chickpea & Tomato Salad – With red onion, parsley, and a red wine vinaigrette—protein-rich and colorful.

Bread Options:

• Crusty Sourdough or Baguette – Perfect for mopping up every last bit of that herby white wine sauce.

• Toasted Pita with Olive Tapenade – Great for dipping and adds a savory punch alongside the fish.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 fresh cod fillets

• Sea salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Pinch of red pepper flakes

• 1/4 cup red onions, thinly sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, chopped

• 1/4 cup dry white wine

• 3 tablespoons fresh herbs (I used thyme and oregano)

• 1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved

• 1/4 cup jarred artichoke hearts

• 1/3 cup mixed olives, halved

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice (to finish)

Instructions:

1. Season the Fish
   Pat the cod fillets dry and season both sides with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.

2. Sear the Cod
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the seasoned cod fillets and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until just golden. Remove the fillets from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics
   Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced red onions and chopped garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until fragrant and lightly browned.

4. Build the Sauce
   Pour in the white wine and add the fresh herbs, grape tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives. Stir everything together and let the flavors begin to meld.

5. Finish Cooking the Cod
   Nestle the cod fillets back into the skillet and simmer for another 5 to 7 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and the sauce has slightly reduced.

6. Serve & Enjoy
   Finish with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of herbs, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this Mediterranean delight.

Pro Tip: This dish is just as delicious the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container and gently reheat in a skillet for lunch the next day.

Or, my favorite—add your leftovers to a bed of mixed greens with your favorite vinaigrette dressing. AKA: make a salad!

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with guests, this Mediterranean Skillet Cod is a beautiful way to bring vibrant, nourishing ingredients to the table with ease. It’s a weeknight win that tastes like a weekend escape—simple, satisfying, and bursting with coastal charm.

Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon just before serving—it brightens everything up and ties the whole dish together.

xoxox!

~ Bek