Oven-Baked Fish with Herbs and Citrus

This flavorful fish dish combines fresh herbs and the tangy zest of citrus for a delightful culinary experience. The preparation involves marinating the fish with a mix of herbs and spices, enhancing its natural flavors. A medley of dill, parsley, and thyme adds a fragrant touch, while lemon or lime slices bring a refreshing note. This dish is ideal for those who appreciate simple yet elegant cooking techniques. It's perfect for a family dinner or a dinner party, offering a dish that impresses without requiring intricate culinary skills. The preparation time is manageable, ensuring you can create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Baked to perfection, the fish remains tender and juicy, absorbing the vibrant flavors of the ingredients. It's easily adaptable for different dietary preferences, making it a versatile choice. For those who savor a touch of the Mediterranean in their meals, this recipe is a must-try.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Fish (preferably, sea fish)
• Salt
• Black pepper

Herbs and Spices:

• Dill
• Parsley
• Thyme
• Santa Maria seasoning for fish dishes or pizza

Citrus and Others:

• Lemon or lime
• Onions

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes (including preparation and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Clean the Fish: Rinse the fish thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Seasoning the Fish: Sprinkle the fish generously with salt, black pepper, and the Santa Maria seasoning. Rub in the thyme for additional aroma and flavor.
3. Herb Stuffing: Stuff the cavity of the fish with a generous handful of dill and parsley. This will infuse the fish with a fresh, herbaceous aroma as it cooks.
4. Prepare the Foil Base: On a large sheet of foil, arrange a layer of thinly sliced onions and citrus slices.
5. Adding Herbs and Citrus: Place a few sprigs of dill and parsley over the onion and citrus layer to enhance the flavors.
6. Lime Layer: Add a second layer of lime or lemon slices atop the herbs for a refreshing kick.
7. Onion Garnish: Top the citrus with additional onion slices for a touch of sweetness.
8. Wrap and Seal: Carefully fold the foil around the fish, sealing the edges to create a snug, steaming packet.
9. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) and allow it to fully heat.
10. Bake the Fish: Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and put it in the oven. Cook the fish for 15 to 30 minutes, depending on its size and thickness, until it's thoroughly cooked and flaky.
11. Check for Doneness: Carefully open the foil to check if the fish is cooked through. The flesh should be opaque and easily flaked with a fork.
12. Serve: Transfer the fish to a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs and citrus slices for an appealing presentation.
13. Enjoy with Sides: Serve alongside your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
14. Final Touch: Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil if desired, for added richness.
15. Taste Adjustment: Feel free to add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
16. Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a chilled rosé for a sophisticated dining experience.
17. Leftover Tips: If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat carefully to avoid drying out the fish.
18. Variations for Diets: To accommodate dietary needs, consider substituting sea fish with a firm tofu for vegetarians.
19. Herb Substitution: If you run out of any herbs, basil or oregano can be good alternatives that also bring a distinct flavor profile.
20. Personal Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Tips

• Use fresh herbs for the best aroma.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Foil wrapping ensures a moist and tender result.

Nutritions

• Calories: 250 per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbs: 5g

Variations

• Substitute fish with chicken breasts for a different protein option.
• For a low-sodium diet, reduce the salt and replace it with lemon zest for zestiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted vegetables or a light green salad.
• Serve with crusty bread or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Best Places

• La Marée - Known for its fresh seafood offerings with Mediterranean influences. Location: 1 avenue George V, Paris, France.
• Le Bernardin - An elegant spot offering exquisite seafood dishes. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
• St. John Bread and Wine - Celebrated for its simple, yet perfectly executed dishes. Location: 94-96 Commercial St, London, UK.
• Quinta da Avó - Offers a cozy ambiance with authentic Portuguese flavors. Location: R. da Liberdade 159, Lisbon, Portugal.
• Kinoshita - Merges Japanese techniques with Brazilian flavors for seafood dishes. Location: Rua Jaques Felix, 405, São Paulo, Brazil.
• Arzak - A family-run restaurant perfecting Basque cuisine. Location: Av. del Alcalde Elósegui, 273, San Sebastián, Spain.
• Nobu - Renowned for its innovative fusion cuisine of Japanese dishes. Location: The Shoreditch, 10-50 Willow St, London, UK.
• Gaggan - Offers avant-garde Indian cuisine with contemporary twists. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Ploenchit Road, Bangkok, Thailand.
• Attica - Known for using native Australian ingredients creatively. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea VIC, Melbourne, Australia.
• The Clam - Celebrated for its modern clam dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Location: 420 Hudson St, New York, USA.