Baked Fish with Citrus

This delightful baked fish with citrus is a refreshing and zesty dish perfect for those who appreciate vibrant flavors. The combination of trout or dorado with aromatic herbs and various citrus slices creates a deliciously fragrant and flavorful meal. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish is simple yet elegant, making it an excellent choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. The citrus slices not only add flavor but also keep the fish moist as it bakes to perfection. Serve it with boiled potatoes or fresh green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. The subtle notes of thyme complement the citrus, giving the dish a sophisticated taste without overwhelming the palate. This recipe brings the enjoyment of fine dining to your home, impressing your guests with minimal effort. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a culinary masterpiece that is not only enticingly fragrant but also visually appealing.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 Trout or Dorado
3-4 Sprigs of Thyme
1 Lemon
1 Orange
1 Lime
Salt and Pepper to taste
1 tbsp Butter

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes (Prep: 10 minutes, Cook: 30 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F) to ensure it reaches the right temperature before you place the fish inside.
Prepare the Fish: Rinse the fish under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the inside and outside generously with salt and pepper.
Season with Herbs: Stuff the fish cavity with 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme to infuse it with an earthy aroma.
Slice the Citrus: Thinly slice the lemon, orange, and lime. These will form the flavorful base for the fish.
Arrange Citrus Slices: Lay a bed of citrus slices on a baking tray. This not only adds flavor but keeps the fish elevated from direct heat.
Place the Fish: Lay the prepared fish on top of the citrus slices, ensuring even contact to absorb the citrus flavors.
Add More Citrus: Place a few more citrus slices inside the cavity and on top of the fish. This adds both flavor and moisture.
Butter the Fish: Dot ½ tablespoon of butter on top of the fish and add the remaining inside the cavity. This enhances flavor and moisture during cooking.
Bake the Fish: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the size of your fish.
Check Doneness: The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque in color. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
Prepare the Side Dish: While the fish is baking, prepare a side dish of boiled potatoes or green salad to serve alongside the fish.
Rest Before Serving: Let the fish rest for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to settle for better flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Carefully transfer the fish onto a serving platter, garnish with reserved citrus slices, and pair it with your chosen sides.
Garnish Options: Consider garnishing with additional fresh thyme or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color.
Final Touch: For a bit of elegance, drizzle a tiny amount of extra virgin olive oil over the fish before serving.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper based on your personal taste preferences.
Presentation: Arrange the citrus slices around the fish on the serving platter for a vibrant and inviting presentation.
Temperature Check: The internal temperature of the fish should be around 63°C (145°F) to ensure it's cooked safely.
Pair With Wine: This dish pairs wonderfully with a chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Bon Appétit: Conclude the meal with a light dessert, like a fresh fruit salad, to complement the citrusy main course.

Tips

Substitute Thyme: If thyme isn't available, rosemary or dill can be used as alternatives to complement the fish.
Citrus Variations: Use grapefruit or blood orange for a unique twist on flavor.
Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the fish after 20 minutes to prevent overcooking, especially if it's smaller.
Butter Substitute: Olive oil can be used instead of butter for a healthier option.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 24g
Fats: 12g
Carbohydrates: 8g

Variations

Herb Mix: Try adding basil or mint for a different taste profile.
Vegan Option: Substitute fish with large portobello mushrooms for a vegan alternative.
Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños for lovers of spicy flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Boiled potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a fresh tomato salad.
Garnishes: Fresh dill or edible flowers for a gourmet touch.
Drinks Pairing: Serve with a crisp, chilled white wine or a citrus-infused sparkling water.

Best Places

The Citrus Fish Café - Known for its unique citrus fish dishes. Location: 123 Ocean Drive, Miami, USA.
Zesty Seafood Hub - Offers a wide variety of flavorful seafood options. Location: 45 Harbour Street, Sydney, Australia.
Thyme & Lime - Famed for its herb-infused fish offerings. Location: 78 Riverview Road, London, UK.
Lemon Zest Bistro - Combines traditional and contemporary fish recipes. Location: 22 Rue de la Mer, Paris, France.
Citrus Delights Kitchen - Specializes in citrus-flavored Mediterranean cuisine. Location: 10 Citrus Way, Santorini, Greece.
Sunny Fish Tavern - Coastal restaurant with a citrus tradition. Location: 36 Beachfront Avenue, Cape Town, South Africa.
Tropical Fish & More - Known for tropical fish dishes with a citrus twist. Location: 55 Island Lane, Nassau, Bahamas.
Orange Peel Eatery - Blends bold citrus flavors with fresh seafood. Location: 90 Coral Street, Honolulu, USA.
Zesty Bites Fish Bar - Offers a modern take on classic flavors. Location: 14 Sea Street, Tokyo, Japan.
Citrus & Spice - Known for exotic flavor palettes and creative dishes. Location: 60 Spice Trail, Bangkok, Thailand.