Pike with Fresh Herbs and Vegetables

This delightful recipe centers around the succulent flavors of pike, complemented with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. The fish is generously seasoned with salt and pepper to enhance its natural taste. Dill, whether fresh or dried, adds a refreshing herbal note to this dish. Vegetables such as onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers bring a medley of flavors and a lovely texture. The addition of mayonnaise inside and over the fish lends a creamy richness, while a hint of sugar balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness. Wrapped in foil and cooked to perfection in the oven, this dish makes for a flavorful main course. It's easy enough for a relaxing weekend meal but impressive enough for a special occasion. Whether you're cooking for family or guests, this pike recipe is sure to please. Serve it with side dishes for a complete and satisfying dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 1.5-2.5 kg pike
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 tomatoes
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1 long cucumber

Spices and Sauces:

  • A generous amount of fresh or dried dill
  • Ground black pepper
  • Salt
  • Sugar
  • Mayonnaise

Preparation Time

Total time: About 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

  1. Clean the pike thoroughly. Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the fish, adjusting to your taste.
  2. Generously coat the fish with finely chopped fresh dill. Dried dill can be used if fresh is unavailable.
  3. Finely chop the onion, slice the tomatoes into quarters, and cut the cucumber into halves or slices. Optionally, add carrots and canned corn for an extra flavor.
  4. Stuff some of the vegetables inside the fish's cavity and arrange the rest around it.
  5. Smear mayonnaise over the pike, pressing most of it into the cavity.
  6. Layer dill and sugar inside the cavity. **Do not skip the sugar,** as it adds a sweet and sour taste. Without it, the dish might be too tart.
  7. Place the pike on a sheet of aluminum foil. Squeeze more mayonnaise over the top, and sprinkle the vegetables outside with salt and sugar.
  8. Position the pike on its back and wrap it snugly in foil.
  9. Preheat the oven and place the fish on a baking tray. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the fish's size.
  10. If grilling, position a lid on the grill and leave the vent open by one-third to maintain adequate heat without igniting the coals.

Tips

  • Ensure the pike is cleaned thoroughly for the best flavor.
  • Fresh dill enhances the taste more effectively than dried.
  • Adjust seasoning according to your preference, especially the sugar content for the desired sweet-sour balance.

Nutritions

Calories: 350 per serving, Protein: 40g, Fats: 20g, Carbs: 10g

Variations

  • Swap pike for another firm white fish, such as cod or haddock.
  • For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve alongside roasted or mashed potatoes.
  • A fresh green salad complements the flavors beautifully.
  • Pair with a chilled white wine for a delightful dining experience.

Best Places

  • The Fish Market - Known for its fresh seafood dishes. Location: 10 Harbourside Lane, Sydney, Australia.
  • Seafood Delight - Offers an array of extraordinary fish recipes. Location: 5 Ocean Avenue, Cape Town, South Africa.
  • Aquatic Affair - Elegant dining with a focus on fish specialties. Location: 12 Wave Circle, Miami, USA.
  • Neptune's Feast - Famous for gourmet seafood preparations. Location: 8 Poseidon Boulevard, Reykjavik, Iceland.
  • Ocean's Bounty - Excellent menu focused on ocean-fresh ingredients. Location: 18 Coral Lane, Oslo, Norway.
  • Poseidon's Table - A top choice for seafood lovers. Location: 9 Seashore Drive, Auckland, New Zealand.
  • Catch of the Day - Beloved for its daily fish specials. Location: 22 Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, USA.
  • Blue Lagoon Bistro - Cozy eatery with diverse fish dishes. Location: 14 Island Path, Honolulu, USA.
  • Seafood Sensation - Popular spot with a wide seafood selection. Location: 3 Amber Quay, Singapore.
  • Pelagic Plate - Renowned for unique and creative seafood pairings. Location: 7 Aqua Way, Vancouver, Canada.