Mediterranean Psari Plaki (Oven-Baked Fish with Tomatoes & Onions) — Easy Greek Fish Dinner

A simple, flavorful, versatile, and healthy Greek fish recipe that never fails!

Mediterranean Psari Plaki is a classic Greek oven-baked fish dish made with tender white fish nestled in a light tomato and onion sauce infused with olive oil, garlic, and oregano. It’s simple, nourishing, and full of Mediterranean flavor, making it perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a relaxed family meal. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every bit of the sauce and enjoy a timeless Greek favorite that feels both comforting and elegant.

This is one of my favorite ways to make fish. It’s one of those recipes where simple ingredients really shine. I use whichever white fish I have on hand or looks good at the market, and roasting it gently in the tomato and onion sauce allows it to absorb the aromatic herbs and citrus notes from the lemon. I add olives on top because they add so much more flavor. The result is tender, flaky fish in a light yet deeply flavorful sauce that feels rustic and refined at the same time.

Why will everyone love psari plaki?

Soft, tender, flaky fish

Sweet caramelized onions

Light, garlicky,

Bright, herby, sweet,

Savory tomato sauce

What are the ingredients for Mediterranean Psari Plaki?

Firm white fish fillets – Cod, snapper, or sea bass work beautifully because they hold their shape while baking and absorb the sauce without falling apart. You can use any firm white fish you prefer, just remember that thicker fillets may need a few extra minutes.

Extra virgin olive oil – Adds depth to the sauce as it cooks the onions and garlic.

Onion – Thinly sliced so it softens and caramelizes until naturally sweet.

Garlic – Infuses the sauce with savory warmth and really balances it.

Diced tomatoes – or crushed tomatoes work best to create a light, rustic tomato base. Fresh, ripe tomatoes can replace canned when in season for a brighter flavor.

Tomato paste – Adds concentration and depth of flavor.

Water or fish stock – Loosens the sauce and enhances the seafood flavor.

Dried oregano – A classic Greek herb that gives the dish its signature aroma and sweet herbiness.

Dried thyme – Adds subtle earthy notes that pair perfectly with oregano and lemon.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Balance and enhance the flavors of the sauce. Always season to taste.

Lemon slices – Brightens the dish, adds a perfect balance of light lemon flavor, and complements the fish beautifully.

Fresh parsley – adds color and a fresh herb finish before serving.

Make it even more delicious add-ins?

Granulated sugar – If you use canned tomatoes, a good pinch of sugar helps balance their acidity. Leave this out if you use fresh tomatoes. I got the same tip from a lot of you when I posted this recipe on my YouTube channel… skip the sugar and add a carrot to the sauce while cooking, then remove the carrot to finish the dish. I haven’t tried it, but if it works for some of you, I knew the rest of you would want to know this simple trick.

Crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, but we love it for a tiny kick of heat.

Kalamata olives – Or green or your favorite olives for an extra punch. These are optional, but I can’t tell you how much more flavor these add to every bite. Roasting them makes them a bit milder, a little nutty, and so, so good in the tomato sauce.

How to Make Psari Plaki?

Step 1: Prepare the sauce

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until soft and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the tomato base

Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, water or fish stock, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors blend.

Step 3: Add the fish

Nestle the fish fillets into the sauce and spoon some of the tomatoes over the top. Arrange lemon slices around and over the fish, and if you’re adding olives, sprinkle them over the top now before baking.

Step 4: Bake

Transfer the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.

What are the best ways to serve Mediterranean Psari Plaki?

Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to serve warm. Traditionally, we serve this with crusty warm bread and a side salad. The bread soaks up the flavorful sauce, and the meal is done. However, roasted potatoes or a roasted chickpea and rice pilaf are great on the side. You can even add this on top of noodles, mashed potatoes, or a simple rice pilaf to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors settle. Reheat it slowly as to not overcook the perfectly flaky fish.

Do you have more white fish dishes?

30 Minute Meal: Mediterranean Fish & Chickpea Skillet

Cod Fish In A Lemon Butter Sauce (30 Min. Meal) Served With Green Peas And White Rice

Cod Fish Stew

Roasted Cod with Pearl Onions Stifado

Lemony Cod & Potato Stew

Baked Cod Harissa

Greek Psarosoupa Recipe (Lemony Fish Soup)

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