Baked pike with vegetables

Pike Perch with Oven-Roasted Vegetables: a Healthy and Flavorful Delight

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a delicious meal, full of flavor and health? Today, I will share with you an enticing recipe for oven-roasted pike perch with vegetables, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it is also an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy fresh and nutritious fish.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Baking fish in the oven is an ancient tradition that dates back centuries. In different corners of the world, fish has been considered a staple food source, and preparing it with vegetables quickly became a popular method to preserve natural flavors and add a splash of color to the plate. This pike perch recipe combines the flavor of fresh fish with crunchy vegetables, creating a dish that is a must-have on our menu.

Ingredients

- 4 fresh pike perch
- 1 large carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1/3 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 10 ml white wine
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 stalk of young leek
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 1/2 lemon (juice)
- Salt, pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Side dish: boiled potatoes or polenta with garlic sauce

Step-by-step Preparation

1. Preparing the Fish
Start by cleaning and washing the pike perch thoroughly. Make sure to remove all the entrails and scales. Once cleaned, rub them with salt and add a pinch of pepper all over. This will help enhance the flavor of the fish.

2. Preparing the Vegetables
Slice the carrot into thin rounds, the onion into scales, and the bell pepper into small pieces. This combination will add a sweet flavor and a pleasant texture to the dish. Also, slice the leek thinly to add its specific aroma.

3. Assembling the Dish
In a baking tray, place the pike perch and drizzle them with olive oil. Evenly scatter the sliced vegetables on top of the fish, creating a colorful and appetizing layer. This step is essential to allow the flavors to blend during baking.

4. Adding Spices and Liquids
In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste with the white wine and lemon juice. This combination will add acidity and flavor to the dish. Pour the mixture over the fish and vegetables, ensuring everything is well covered.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the tray in the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes. Halfway through the time, check the dish and, if necessary, drizzle a few tablespoons of water to prevent it from drying out.

6. Finalizing
After 30 minutes, check if the fish is cooked (the flesh should be opaque and easily flake off the bones). In the last 5-10 minutes, drizzle the dish with fresh garlic sauce for an irresistible flavor.

7. Serving
Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for added freshness. Serve with boiled potatoes or polenta with garlic sauce for a traditional and comforting meal.

Useful Tips

- Choosing the Fish: Make sure the pike perch is fresh. Look for clear eyes and firm flesh. If possible, buy fish from local sources.
- Variations: You can replace the vegetables with your favorites or seasonal ones. For example, zucchini or cherry tomatoes can add a different note.
- Garlic Sauce: For a perfect garlic sauce, crush the garlic with salt and mix it with olive oil and water. This will complement the fish and add an intense flavor.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of oven-roasted pike perch with vegetables has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the side dish. This dish is rich in quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins (A, C), and essential minerals, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish?
Of course! This recipe can easily be adapted to fish like sea bream or salmon.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.

3. What drinks pair well with this recipe?
A dry white wine or a citrus cocktail will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

I hope this recipe for oven-roasted pike perch with vegetables has inspired you to venture into the kitchen! Remember, cooking is an art, and every meal can become a special occasion when prepared with love. Enjoy your meal!