Do you cook with olive oil? 🫒

Do you cook with olive oil? 🫒 is a easy Mediterranean recipe that serves 2. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Andy Cooks on YouTube.

Prep: 5 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 30 min

Cost: $5.63 total, $2.81 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for frying, high‑quality)
  • 2 pieces White Fish Fillets (skinless, about 150 g each (e.g., cod, haddock, or tilapia))
  • 0.5 tsp Salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour (light coating for a crisp crust (optional))
  • 1 Lemon (cut into wedges for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fish

    Pat the fillets dry with paper towels, season both sides with salt and pepper, and if using, lightly dredge in flour, shaking off excess.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Heat the Oil

    Add the extra virgin olive oil to the skillet and heat over medium‑high until it reaches about 180°C (use a thermometer or look for a steady shimmer).

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: 180°C

  3. Fry the Fish

    Place the fillets in the hot oil skin‑side down (if skin present). Cook 3‑4 minutes without moving, then gently flip and cook another 3‑4 minutes until the flesh is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: 180°C

  4. Drain and Rest

    Transfer the cooked fish to the paper‑towel‑lined plate to drain excess oil.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Serve

    Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and serve immediately with your favorite side.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
20 g
Carbohydrates
5 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
0 g

Dietary info: Pescatarian, Gluten‑Free if flour omitted, Dairy‑Free

Allergens: Fish, Wheat

Last updated: March 13, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Do you cook with olive oil? 🫒

Recipe by Andy Cooks

A quick, healthy Mediterranean‑style pan‑fried white fish using extra virgin olive oil. The high‑quality oil adds antioxidants and, when heated properly, boosts the nutritional value of the fish. Perfect for a light dinner or lunch.

EasyMediterraneanServes 2

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
10m
Prep
10m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
30m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.63
Total cost
$2.81
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Pat the fish completely dry before seasoning.
  • Heat extra virgin olive oil to 180°C without reaching its smoke point.
  • Do not flip the fish until a golden crust forms.
  • Drain excess oil on paper towels before serving.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil can cause severe burns; use long‑handled tongs.
  • Never leave heating oil unattended.
  • Keep children and pets away from the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of pan‑fried fish with olive oil in Mediterranean cuisine?

A

In Mediterranean coastal towns, pan‑frying fresh catch in olive oil has been a staple for centuries, highlighting the region’s reliance on both the sea and the olive groves. The technique showcases the oil’s flavor while preserving the delicate texture of the fish.

cultural
Q

What are traditional regional variations of pan‑fried fish in Mediterranean countries?

A

In Italy, the fish is often finished with a splash of white wine and parsley; in Spain, smoked paprika and lemon are added; in Greece, a drizzle of lemon‑olive oil sauce and oregano is common. Each variation reflects local herbs and flavor preferences.

cultural
Q

How is pan‑fried fish traditionally served in Mediterranean households?

A

It is typically served hot, drizzled with fresh lemon juice, alongside a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up any remaining oil. The dish is often enjoyed as a light lunch or dinner.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations feature pan‑fried fish in Mediterranean culture?

A

Fresh‑caught fish is a centerpiece during coastal festivals, family gatherings after a day of fishing, and religious feasts such as the Feast of Saint Peter. The quick cooking method allows for immediate enjoyment of the day’s catch.

cultural
Q

What makes pan‑fried fish with extra virgin olive oil special in Mediterranean cooking?

A

Extra virgin olive oil adds antioxidants and a fruity flavor that complements the fish, while heating it just below its smoke point can actually enhance the nutritional profile. The method balances health benefits with a crisp, satisfying texture.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making pan‑fried fish with extra virgin olive oil?

A

Common errors include using oil that is not hot enough, which leads to soggy fish; overcrowding the pan, which drops the temperature; and letting the oil exceed its 210°C smoke point, which can create off‑flavors and reduce health benefits.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use extra virgin olive oil instead of a higher‑smoke‑point oil like canola?

A

Extra virgin olive oil provides a richer flavor and more antioxidants. When the oil is kept below its 210°C smoke point, it performs just as well as higher‑smoke‑point oils for shallow frying, and the nutritional boost is retained.

technical
Q

Can I make this pan‑fried fish ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can season the raw fillets up to 30 minutes ahead and keep them refrigerated. Cooked fish should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated gently; it’s best enjoyed the same day for optimal texture.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the fish is done?

A

The exterior should be golden‑brown and crisp, while the interior is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. An internal temperature of 63°C confirms doneness without overcooking.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Andy Cooks specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Andy Cooks focuses on simple, health‑forward home cooking tutorials that emphasize technique, ingredient quality, and quick meals for everyday cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Andy Cooks' approach to Mediterranean cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Andy Cooks blends scientific explanations—like oil smoke points—with practical, no‑fuss recipes, often highlighting the nutritional advantages of traditional Mediterranean ingredients, whereas many channels prioritize flavor alone.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

When I’m too lazy to make dinner

When I’m too lazy to make dinner

A quick, Mediterranean‑inspired snack perfect for a solo "girl dinner". Creamy feta mixed with tangy sun‑dried tomatoes, fresh basil and a drizzle of honey are folded into a crisp tortilla pocket and air‑fried to golden perfection.

27 min
Serves 2
$7
1 views
MediterraneanEasy
This is the best watermelon feta salad you will ever make!

This is the best watermelon feta salad you will ever make!

A refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad featuring sweet watermelon, crisp cucumber, tangy feta, and a bright vinaigrette with poppy seeds. Perfect as a side dish or light appetizer for summer gatherings.

30 min
Serves 4
$3
2 views
MediterraneanEasy
I Tried Viral Lazy Dinner Recipes *girl dinner* 🍽️

I Tried Viral Lazy Dinner Recipes *girl dinner* 🍽️

A quick and lazy "girl dinner" snack featuring salty feta, tangy sun‑dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a sweet honey drizzle, all folded into a tortilla pocket and crisped in the air fryer.

25 min
Serves 2
$20
1 views
MediterraneanEasy
Crispy Sea Bass with Cherry Tomato & Olive Butter Beans and Caper Dill Greek Yogurt

Crispy Sea Bass with Cherry Tomato & Olive Butter Beans and Caper Dill Greek Yogurt

A Mediterranean-inspired main course featuring pan‑fried sea bass fillets served over a bright butter‑bean, cherry‑tomato and olive medley, finished with a tangy caper‑dill Greek yogurt sauce. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

50 min
Serves 2
$27
18 views
MediterraneanMedium
Mediterranean Couscous Salad

Mediterranean Couscous Salad

A quick, fresh Mediterranean couscous salad tossed in a vibrant smoked paprika‑lemon dressing. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for meal‑prep and can be stored in the fridge all week.

30 min
Serves 4
$5
3 views
MediterraneanEasy
Roasted Red Pepper Soup, James Oliver's one of the best recipe

Roasted Red Pepper Soup, James Oliver's one of the best recipe

A velvety Mediterranean-inspired soup made from sweet roasted red peppers and tender squash, enriched with cream cheese and whipped cream, and finished with crunchy breadcrumb garnish. Perfect for a cozy lunch or elegant starter.

1 hr 20 min
Serves 4
$16
12 views
MediterraneanMedium