Fish fillet with smoked bacon, lemon mayonnaise, and asparagus

Delicious Recipe: Fish Fillet with Smoked Bacon, Lemon Mayonnaise, and Asparagus

This delightful recipe for fish fillet with smoked bacon, lemon mayonnaise, and asparagus is a perfect choice for a festive meal or a romantic dinner. It is easy to prepare and combines the intense flavors of bacon with the delicacy of fish and the freshness of asparagus. Let's embark together on the preparation of this tasty dish!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 4 fish fillets (cod, haddock, or monkfish), each weighing about 200g
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, leaves torn and finely chopped
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 10-12 slices of smoked bacon (or pancetta, depending on preference)
- Olive oil, for cooking
- 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 2 small bunches of asparagus

Preparation:

1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. This will ensure even cooking of the fish, and the bacon will become deliciously crispy.

2. Seasoning the fish: In a small bowl, mix the lemon zest, chopped rosemary, and ground pepper. This aromatic mixture will add a fresh and vibrant taste to the fish. Season the fish fillets with this mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. An important note: do not add salt, as the bacon will provide enough saltiness to the dish.

3. Wrapping the fillets: Take the slices of bacon and wrap each fish fillet with a slice, making sure the bacon completely covers the fillet. This will not only add flavor but also keep the moisture of the fish during cooking.

4. Cooking the fish: In a pan that can be used on the stove and in the oven, add a little olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bacon-wrapped fillets and fry them for 1-1.5 minutes on each side until the bacon turns golden. This step will provide a crispy and delicious texture.

5. Baking in the oven: After frying the fillets, transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake the fish for about 15 minutes. Check it halfway through; the fish is done when the bacon is browned and crispy, and the fish is cooked properly.

6. Preparing the lemon mayonnaise: Meanwhile, you can prepare the lemon mayonnaise sauce. In a bowl, add the 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise, ground pepper, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix well until you achieve a creamy and flavorful sauce, perfect for accompanying the fish.

7. Preparing the asparagus: Asparagus can be prepared either steamed or boiled. If you choose to boil it, bring water to a boil in a pot and add the asparagus for a few minutes until it becomes slightly crunchy. Then, immediately transfer it to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and maintain its vibrant color.

8. Assembling the plate: On an elegant platter, arrange the bacon-wrapped fish fillets alongside the boiled asparagus. Finally, add a generous portion of lemon mayonnaise on top of the fish or alongside, as preferred.

Serving suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors. You can also add a fresh green salad or a side of mashed potatoes for a more substantial lunch or dinner.

Helpful tips:

- Choosing the fish: Choose fresh, boneless fish fillets to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Cod and haddock are excellent due to their firm texture.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the bacon with marinated tofu slices or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Keeping the bacon crispy: If you want even crispier bacon, you can fry the slices separately before wrapping them around the fish.
- Homemade mayonnaise: If you like to experiment, you can make homemade mayonnaise to control the ingredients and achieve a customized flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Fish is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as antioxidants. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious!

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, you can use any type of white fish that cooks well, such as sole or tilapia.

2. How can I tell if the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is cooked when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

3. Can I prepare the recipe in advance?
It is recommended to prepare this dish fresh, but you can make the lemon mayonnaise a few hours ahead.

This recipe for Fish Fillet with Smoked Bacon, Lemon Mayonnaise, and Asparagus is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. So, dare to delight your guests with this savory combination, and they will surely come back for more! Enjoy every bite and savor the moment!