The flavors of Provence shine in this effortless yet sophisticated baked fish dish. With tender white fish fillets nestled over roasted Yukon Gold potatoes and mushrooms, each bite is infused with herbes de Provence and brightened by fresh lemon juice. This one-pan meal brings elegance to your everyday dinner routine without demanding much time or effort. Whether you use halibut, grouper, or cod, this dish pairs perfectly with a side salad or a glass of chilled white wine. Serve it on a rustic wooden board or in a ceramic baking dish for that warm, countryside charm.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 pound Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cubed
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1 pound mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, oyster, or other fresh), trimmed and sliced
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
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¼ teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon ground pepper
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2 cloves garlic, peeled and sliced
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14 ounces halibut, grouper, or cod fillet, cut into 4 portions
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4 tablespoons lemon juice
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1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
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Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
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In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes and sliced mushrooms with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Spread the mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes, until the vegetables are just tender.
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Remove the dish from the oven, stir the vegetables, and mix in the sliced garlic.
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Place the fish fillets on top of the roasted vegetables.
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Drizzle the lemon juice and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the fish.
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Sprinkle everything with herbes de Provence.
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Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
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Garnish with fresh thyme if desired and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 276 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Discover the Charm of Provencal Baked Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Mushrooms
If you’re looking for a meal that combines flavor, health, and elegance—all baked into one tray—look no further than Provencal Baked Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Mushrooms. Inspired by the rustic kitchens of southern France, this one-pan dish is simple enough for a busy weeknight, yet sophisticated enough to serve at a dinner party.
Rooted in the culinary traditions of Provence, a sun-drenched region along the Mediterranean coast of France, this recipe showcases the timeless combination of fresh vegetables, lean protein, and aromatic herbs. Each element comes together to deliver a dish that is wholesome, satisfying, and brimming with natural flavor.
A Glimpse into Provençal Cuisine
Provençal cuisine is best known for its vibrant, garden-fresh ingredients, olive oil-rich preparations, and sun-soaked flavors. Think tomatoes, garlic, herbs like thyme and rosemary, and of course—seafood. The region’s close proximity to the Mediterranean Sea means that fish is a staple protein, and dishes often center around accessible, seasonal produce and minimal fuss.
This baked fish recipe pays tribute to that ethos with its use of flaky white fish—such as halibut or cod—layered atop roasted Yukon Gold potatoes and earthy mushrooms. The dish is delicately seasoned with herbes de Provence, a fragrant blend of dried herbs that might include thyme, oregano, rosemary, and lavender.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
Let’s break down why this dish deserves a spot in your culinary rotation:
1. One-Pan Wonder
There’s nothing better than a healthy, hearty meal that’s made in just one baking dish. With fewer pots and pans to clean, it’s ideal for busy households or anyone who loves delicious food without the post-dinner chaos.
2. Rich in Nutrients, Low in Calories
At just under 300 calories per serving, this dish is light yet filling. It provides lean protein from the fish, complex carbs from the potatoes, and immune-boosting nutrients from garlic and mushrooms. It’s diabetic-friendly, gluten-free, and pescatarian, making it suitable for a wide range of diets.
3. Naturally Gluten-Free
For those with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, this dish is a godsend. It relies on whole ingredients—no thickeners, no hidden gluten, just real food.
4. Bursting with Flavor from Natural Ingredients
The lemon juice brightens the fish beautifully, while the roasted potatoes and mushrooms soak in all the savory notes. Garlic and herbes de Provence bring it to life with their aromatic punch, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil ties everything together.
Health Benefits of the Main Ingredients
This meal isn’t just about flavor—it’s a nutritional powerhouse.
🐟 White Fish (Halibut, Cod, or Grouper)
- Low in fat and high in protein
- Rich in B vitamins and selenium
- Provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids
- Easy to digest, making it ideal for light dinners
🥔 Yukon Gold Potatoes
- A great source of fiber when skin-on
- Contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure
- Offers slow-burning carbs for sustained energy
🍄 Mushrooms (Cremini, Shiitake, Oyster, etc.)
- Packed with antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds
- Low in calories but high in umami flavor
- Contains ergothioneine, a compound linked to reduced inflammation
🧄 Garlic
- Natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
- Boosts immune system and cardiovascular health
- Enhances digestion and may lower blood pressure
🍋 Lemon Juice
- Adds vitamin C and helps the body absorb iron
- Brightens the flavor naturally without salt or sugar
- Aids in digestion and alkalizing the body
🌿 Herbes de Provence
- A blend of Mediterranean herbs known for their anti-inflammatory properties
- Enhances flavor without extra fat or sodium
- Adds a rustic, aromatic quality to any dish
A Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, meal-prepping for the week ahead, or trying to impress a dinner guest, Provencal Baked Fish fits the bill. It’s not overly “fishy,” so even those new to seafood usually find it palatable. And because the vegetables roast underneath the fish, they soak up all the lovely juices, becoming golden and rich with flavor.
Pair this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a side salad with a citrus vinaigrette, or crusty gluten-free bread. Want something more indulgent? Serve it with a garlic aioli or a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt mixed with fresh herbs.
Tips for Perfect Execution
- Use a firm, flaky fish – Cod, halibut, and grouper hold their shape during baking. Make sure the fillet isn’t too thin or it might overcook quickly.
- Slice the potatoes thin and even – This ensures they roast at the same rate as the mushrooms and become buttery-soft by the time the fish is added.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish – Give your veggies space to brown and caramelize. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
- Add garlic midway through roasting – This prevents the garlic from burning while still allowing its flavor to mellow and spread.
- Finish with fresh herbs or lemon zest – A sprinkle of parsley or thyme and a final splash of lemon juice just before serving will brighten the whole dish.
Make It Your Own: Variations & Add-ons
- Add cherry tomatoes for a pop of sweetness and color
- Sprinkle feta or goat cheese before serving for creaminess
- Use sweet potatoes for a beta-carotene boost
- Try zucchini or bell peppers for extra Mediterranean flair
- Swap lemon juice for white wine for a deeper flavor
This dish is endlessly customizable while still retaining its rustic, wholesome character. That’s what makes it so universally loved.
Cultural and Emotional Connection
There’s something special about cooking dishes that are rooted in place and tradition. This meal evokes the French countryside—the scent of herbs in the air, the sound of waves in the distance, and the comfort of home cooking shared with loved ones.
It’s a recipe that brings people together. It tells a story through its ingredients and creates a sense of place right in your kitchen. When you cook this dish, you’re not just nourishing your body—you’re connecting to centuries of culinary wisdom.
Conclusion
Provencal Baked Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Mushrooms proves that simplicity and sophistication can go hand in hand. With just a handful of clean ingredients, this dish delivers a balanced, nourishing, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect any day of the week.
It invites both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs to celebrate seasonal produce, Mediterranean ingredients, and timeless techniques—all with minimal cleanup.
Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your go-to recipes for years to come.