There’s something so comforting about a dish that’s both nourshing and fuss-free, and that’s exactly why this baked whole fish has become one of my go-to recipes. It’s the perfect balance of healthy and satisfying, with tender, flaky fish infused with fresh herbs and just the right amount of seasoning.

Unlike frying, baking lets the natural flavours of the fish shine through. A light coating of olive oil, salt, and pepper is often all yo uneed. I like to play with different add-ons depending on my mood, such as a squeeze of lemon, sometimes garlic and parsley, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a lil kick!

Here are some reasons why you will love this recipe:

  • Healthier option: baking requires little oil, keeping the dish light yet flavourful
  • Effortless prep: Everything comes together in less than half an hour, then the oven does the work
  • Versatile: Works with almost any type of fish, from tilapia to snapper to salmon!

When it comes to light and flavourful dishes like this Whole Baked Fish, it’s all about layering flavours. Rosemary and lemon slices tucked around the fish and on top infuse it with brightness and an aromatic lift.

I like to serve my Whole Baked Fish with roasted mushrooms which you can prepare altogether in the same dish. Then, finish it off with a simple side of refreshing salad or vegetables. If you would like your Whole Baked Fish to be crispier, consider flipping it halfway through.

Baked fish is one of those dishes that prove that healthier eating doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough to serve at gatherings. Once you try it, I promise it will earn a regular spot on your table too!

If you’re curious, I got most of the ingredients from Singapore Farmers’ Market, they’re fresh and sustainably farmed. You can find out more here! The tilapia is from The Straits Fish, mushrooms from Kin Yan and salad vegetables from Growy.

Without further ado, the recipe.

Whole Baked Fish Recipe
by Javier Tan September-24-2025

Eating healthy doesn’t have to complicated, this Whole Baked Fish proves that it can be elegant and easy enough for weeknights!

Ingredients (Baked Fish)

  • 1 Marine Tilapia, ensure the fish is degutted, descaled and cleaned
  • 1 – 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1/2 Tsp Salt
  • Pepper, paprika to taste
  • 2 Lemons, thinly sliced
  • 4 – 5 Rosemary sprigs

Ingredients (Roasted Mushrooms, Same Tray)

  • 130g of Mushrooms, such as oyster mushrooms
  • 1 – 2 Tsp Olive Oil
  • 1/4 Tsp Salt
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Firstly, pat the marine tilapia dry and set aside.
  2. Then, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper and paprika before coating the skin and inside of the tilapia with it.
  3. Stuff the marine tilapia with lemons and rosemary sprigs. I like to top them off with extra lemon slices for a further boost in flavours. Set at the centre of the baking tray.
  4. For the mushrooms, mix all of the ingredients together and place them beside the fish.
  5. Bake for 35 – 40 mins, 180C, until golden brown. If you would like a slightly crispier fish, you can flip it halfway through (I didn’t do this in the video, texture quite similar to steamed fish).
  6. Garnish with fresh produce such as kale.
  7. Serve and enjoy!

Details

  • Prep time: 20 mins
  • Cook time: 40 mins
  • Total time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 1 Whole Baked Fish

Notes:

  1. If you would like to be updated for more recipes which I strive to create to perfection for sharing and for free, do check out my Instagram, Facebook Page, or YouTube 🙂 Thank you so much for all of your support! Feel free to tag me or link back here!
  2. Best served well on the day itself!
  3. Feel free to ask if you’ve further questions!

Enjoy!
– Bakeomaniac, Javier Tan