This Easy Savory Mediterranean Fish Puttanesca is packed with bright, bold flavors. Fresh fish meets olives, capers, and tomatoes, creating a dish that feels special but is simple to prepare!
Honestly, the tangy sauce is a dream! I like to serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up all that deliciousness. Your taste buds will thank you! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
White Fish: Cod, halibut, or haddock are great choices here. If you can’t find these, consider using salmon or tilapia as alternatives. They all cook well with the sauce!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a richness to the sauce, but you can use regular olive oil or even a light oil like avocado oil if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.
Kalamata Olives: These provide a nice briny flavor. If you prefer, you can swap with green olives or even skip them if you’re not a fan. Just add a bit more capers for that salty flavor!
Capers: They add a tangy bite. If you’re out of capers, a splash of lemon juice can bring some brightness to the dish instead.
Fish Stock or White Wine: If you don’t have fish stock, vegetable broth works well. For white wine, a dry white variety is best. If you prefer not to use alcohol, stick with broth.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Fish So It Doesn’t Fall Apart?
Keeping fish intact while cooking can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure your fillets stay beautiful and flaky:
- Pat the fish dry with paper towels to remove moisture. This helps it sear properly in the pan.
- Season both sides of the fillet just before placing it in the skillet to avoid drawing out excess moisture.
- Gently nestle the fish into the simmering sauce rather than dropping it in, which helps maintain its shape.
- Cover the skillet to cook the fish evenly and keep moisture in, but avoid stirring it too much!
Trust me, these steps will help you achieve perfect, flaky fish every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Savory Mediterranean Fish Puttanesca
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fish Dish:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or haddock), about 6 oz each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fish stock or dry white wine
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Time Needed:
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weekday dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Create the Sauce:
Next, add the diced tomatoes, Kalamata olives, capers, and your choice of fish stock or white wine to the skillet. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Cook the Fish:
While the sauce is simmering, season the fish fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides. Gently nestle the fillets into the sauce in the skillet. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Final Touches:
Once the fish is cooked, taste the sauce and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of flavor and color.
6. Serve:
Serve the fish hot, accompanied by crusty bread to mop up the fantastic sauce, or over your favorite pasta or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of your vibrant Mediterranean delight!
Dig in and savor the flavors of the Mediterranean! 😊
FAQ for Easy Savory Mediterranean Fish Puttanesca
Can I Use Frozen Fish Fillets?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can either leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing.
What If I Don’t Have Kalamata Olives?
No worries! If you don’t have Kalamata olives, you can substitute with green olives or skip them altogether. Just add a little extra capers for that punchy flavor, or consider using some sliced sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, then add the fish and cook as directed. This way, you save time while still enjoying fresh flavors!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Enjoy it over fresh pasta or on a slice of bread for an easy meal!
