Baked fish

Delicious baked fish recipe with Mediterranean flavors

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 75-80 minutes
Servings: 2

Welcome to the world of delicious dishes! Today, we will discover together a simple yet extremely flavorful baked fish recipe. An excellent choice for a healthy and aromatic dinner. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also offer you a moment of relaxation, perfect for enjoying time spent in the kitchen.

Baked fish is a classic dish appreciated by generations. Cooking fish in the oven allows the flavors to develop, resulting in a juicy fish with a slightly crispy crust. I will provide you with all the necessary details to achieve a perfect result, and in the end, I will teach you how to serve it to impress any guest.

Ingredients

- 2 mackerel (approximately 300-400 g each)
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh basil
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Optional: 1 lemon (to add a touch of freshness)

Ingredient details

Mackerel is an excellent choice due to its high omega-3 fatty acid content, which is essential for heart health. It is a fatty fish that becomes extremely tender and flavorful when cooked correctly. If you do not have access to mackerel, you can also use other types of fish, such as sardines or salmon.

Olive oil is not only an essential ingredient for flavoring the fish but also brings nutritional benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.

Fresh herbs like rosemary and basil are the key ingredients that add extra flavor. These have been used throughout history in Mediterranean cuisine to enhance the flavors of dishes.

Step by step: Preparing the baked fish

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning the fish. Make sure it is well washed and cleaned. If you are unsure how to clean it, you can ask someone experienced for help or request cleaned fish from the market.

2. Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with salt, pepper, rosemary, and basil (all chopped). This mixture will penetrate the flesh and add incredible flavor during cooking.

3. Marinating: Rub the fish with the spice mixture, both outside and inside. If desired, you can also add lemon slices inside the fish for a fresher taste. Place the fish in a container and let them marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Marinating will allow the ingredients to penetrate the flesh, significantly enhancing the final flavor.

4. Preheating the oven: While the fish is marinating, preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). This step is essential to ensure even baking.

5. Cooking the fish: Place the fish on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly oiled. Bake them in the oven for 35-40 minutes, until the flesh becomes opaque and easily flakes off the bones. It is important not to overcook them, as the fish can become dry.

6. Serving: Once the fish are ready, carefully remove them from the oven. You can serve them with warm polenta and a delicious garlic sauce. The garlic sauce can be prepared by mixing yogurt or sour cream with crushed garlic, salt, and a little lemon juice. This combination will perfectly complement the flavor of the fish.

Useful tips

- If using frozen fish, make sure to fully thaw it before preparing. Fresh fish has superior texture and taste.
- You can also add other vegetables (e.g., tomatoes or onions) to the tray to bake alongside the fish, adding an extra touch of flavor.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your taste. It is important to tailor the recipe to your personal preferences.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, you can use any type of fish you like, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to its thickness.

2. How can I tell if the fish is cooked?
The fish is cooked when the flesh becomes opaque and easily flakes off the bones. You can use a fork to check the texture.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a fresh lemonade are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

Delicious combinations

Baked fish pairs perfectly with fresh salads, mashed potatoes, or flavored rice. You can also experiment with tomato-based sauces or spicy sauces to add a note of intensity.

Personal note

This baked fish recipe is not just a dish but also a childhood memory when my mother cooked freshly caught fish. The aroma of fresh herbs and carefully cooked fish reminds me of family meals and the moments spent together. I encourage you to share this recipe with loved ones, bringing a touch of joy and flavor to every meal.

Enjoy your meal!