Are you ready to impress your taste buds with a culinary delight that takes just 25 minutes to prepare? Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with our "Easy Baked Fish with Garlic and Basil" recipe! This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a healthy, flavorful option that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the aromatic blend of garlic and fresh basil, paired with the zesty brightness of lemon, your kitchen will be transformed into a Mediterranean paradise. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your dinner game—let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 fish fillets (e.g., cod or tilapia)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better sear and prevents steaming.
- Place the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful herb mixture.
- Evenly spread the herb mixture over the top of each fish fillet, ensuring complete coverage.
- Arrange lemon slices around and on top of the fish fillets to infuse additional citrus flavor during baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables or rice.
Tips
- Choose the Right Fish: For the best results, opt for firm white fish like cod or tilapia, which hold up well during baking and absorb flavors beautifully.
- Prep the Fish Properly: Make sure to pat the fish fillets dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect sear and prevents the fish from steaming in the oven.
- Customize the Herb Mixture: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs like parsley or oregano to suit your taste preferences. Fresh herbs make all the difference!
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your fish as it bakes. Depending on the thickness of the fillets, cooking times may vary. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve with Style: For a complete meal, pair your baked fish with roasted vegetables or a light salad. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil on top will elevate the presentation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg
