Baked fish

Baked Fish with the Flavors of Nature

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of cooking! Today, I will share with you a simple yet absolutely delicious recipe: baked fish. This recipe is perfect for those days when you want to bring a healthy dish full of flavors to your table, and it's extremely easy to prepare.

Baked fish is a popular choice in many cultures, where the fresh taste of fish is valued, often associated with festive meals or moments of relaxation with loved ones. Over time, this cooking method has evolved, but the essence remains the same: to highlight the natural flavor of the fish with simple spices and quality ingredients.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh fish (preferably sea bream, sea bass, or salmon)
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 glass of dry white wine
- 100 ml water
- 1-2 tablespoons salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon whole pepper
- 4-5 garlic cloves, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 lemon, for squeezing at the end

Step by step for a perfect baked fish:

1. Preparing the fish: Start by scaling the fish, removing the intestines, and washing it well under cold running water. Make sure the fish is fresh, with a shiny appearance and firm flesh. You can ask the seller for help in cleaning it if you are not familiar with this process.

2. Seasoning: Place the fish in a baking dish. Sprinkle salt evenly both on the outside and inside of the fish. Then, add the whole pepper, garlic slices, and bay leaves. These ingredients will not only flavor the fish but also add a touch of elegance to the dish.

3. Adding liquids: Pour the olive oil and white wine over the fish, ensuring it is well covered. Add the water, which will help keep moisture during baking. The white wine will add a pleasant acidity that balances the flavors.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the dish with the fish inside. Bake for 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of the fish. A useful trick is to check if the fish is cooked by piercing the flesh with a fork. If it flakes easily, it’s done!

5. Finishing the dish: After removing the dish from the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and sprinkle with chopped parsley. This will add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast to the intense flavors.

Serving suggestions: You can serve the fish alongside a fresh green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. Additionally, basmati rice or baked potatoes make excellent accompaniments. For a flavor boost, add a garlic and dill yogurt sauce.

Useful tips:
- Ensure the fish is clean and fresh, as this is essential for a remarkable taste.
- Try to use quality wine, as it will significantly influence the flavor of the dish.
- If desired, you can also add other ingredients like olives or cherry tomatoes to diversify the flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
- What other type of fish can I use? Any white or fatty fish is perfect for this recipe. Salmon or trout are excellent options.
- Can I use other herbs? Absolutely! Rosemary or thyme are delicious alternatives that pair very well with fish.
- How can I store leftovers? Baked fish keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Nutritional benefits: Fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, essential vitamins, and minerals. It contributes to cardiovascular health and is beneficial for brain function. A serving of baked fish provides about 350 calories, depending on the type of fish used and the amount of oil.

In conclusion, the baked fish recipe is a delicious and healthy choice, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different types of fish and spices to find the combination that delights you the most. Enjoy your meal!