Dive into the exquisite flavors of the ocean with our Sautéed Wild Striped Bass recipe! This dish not only highlights the delicate taste of the fish but also brings a burst of freshness with a splash of lemon and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary repertoire in just 25 minutes. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 wild striped bass fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Rinse the wild striped bass fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures a better sear.
- Season both sides of the bass fillets generously with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the fish as it cooks.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot but not smoking; you can test this by carefully flicking a drop of water into the pan—if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the bass fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if they have skin. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the fillets in batches.
- Cook the fillets for about 4-5 minutes on the first side. You will know they are ready to flip when the edges begin to turn golden brown and the fish releases easily from the pan.
- Using a spatula, carefully flip the fillets over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
- While the fish is cooking, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the fillets to add brightness and flavor. You can also add additional seasoning if desired.
- Once the bass is cooked through, remove the fillets from the skillet and transfer them to a serving plate. Allow them to rest for a minute.
- Garnish the sautéed wild striped bass with fresh herbs of your choice, such as parsley, dill, or chives, for added flavor and color.
- Serve immediately while hot, and enjoy your delicious sautéed wild striped bass with your choice of sides, such as sautéed vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Fish: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh wild striped bass fillets. Look for firm, moist flesh with a mild scent of the sea.
- Pat Dry for a Perfect Sear: Make sure to pat the fillets dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
- Temperature Matters: Heat your olive oil until it’s hot enough to sizzle a drop of water. This ensures a great sear and prevents the fish from sticking to the pan.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the fish will steam instead of sautéing. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain that beautiful sear.
- Watch for Doneness: The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Herbs: While parsley, dill, and chives are fantastic garnishes, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fresh herbs to find your perfect flavor combination.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. Pair it with light sides like sautéed vegetables or a crisp salad for a delightful meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 240kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
