A savory and aromatic dish, this braised fish with vegetables and herbs brings together tender fish fillets, fresh seasonal produce, and a rich, flavorful broth. I love how it’s light yet comforting, perfect for a wholesome dinner that doesn’t require much fuss.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or snapper)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
I add the bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.
I mix in the cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, white wine (if I’m using it), lemon juice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then carefully place the fish fillets in the skillet. I cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Once it’s cooked, I garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Calories: About 220 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap the fish for salmon or halibut for a richer flavor. If I want more heat, I add a pinch of chili flakes. For a more Mediterranean twist, I like adding olives and capers to the broth. In the summer, I use fresh basil instead of thyme for a brighter note.
Storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm it on the stove over low heat to avoid overcooking the fish. I avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish dry.
FAQs
How do I know when the fish is cooked?
I check if it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through.
Can I make this recipe without wine?
Yes, I simply replace the wine with more broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
What’s the best fish to use for braising?
I like using firm white fish such as cod, snapper, or halibut, as they hold their shape well during cooking.
Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time?
Yes, I chop them in advance and store them in the fridge, so cooking time is even quicker.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
I don’t recommend freezing cooked fish, as its texture changes. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion
I find braised fish with vegetables and herbs to be one of those rare recipes that feels both homey and elegant. It’s quick to make, nourishing, and adaptable to what I have on hand. When I want a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen, this dish is always a winner.
📖 Recipe:
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Braised Fish with Vegetables and Herbs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A light yet comforting one-pan dish featuring tender fish fillets braised with fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a savory broth. Perfect for a quick, wholesome dinner in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
4 fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or snapper)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for 3-4 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, white wine (if using), lemon juice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then carefully place fish fillets in the skillet. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Use firm white fish like cod, snapper, or halibut for best results.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes.
Swap thyme for fresh basil in summer for a brighter flavor.
Add olives and capers for a Mediterranean twist.
Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stove.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with vegetables
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
