Conversation with tomatoes

Baked Plaice with Cherry Tomatoes and Rice Side Dish

Cooking fish can be a true art, and plaice, the sweet and delicious relative of the sea bream, is the perfect choice for a special meal. With its juicy flesh and delicate flavor, this dish is sure to become a favorite on your menu. In this recipe, we will explore step by step how to prepare baked plaice, accompanied by cherry tomatoes and a simple rice side dish.

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 1 hour
- Baking time: 40 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 55 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the plaice:
- 1 plaice (approximately 2 kg)
- 500 g cherry tomatoes (preferably on the vine)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons mix of natural spices (garlic, onion, bell pepper, cumin, chili pepper, ginger, pepper)
- Sea salt with chili flakes
- 1 lemon (optional)

For the rice side dish:
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 1 small bunch of green onions
- 1 small bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt (to taste)

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the fish
1. Cleaning and washing the plaice: Start by cleaning and washing the plaice thoroughly. It is essential to remove all impurities to enjoy a clean taste.
2. Scoring the fish: Using a sharp knife, score the plaice in several places. This step allows the spices to penetrate better into the flesh and helps with even baking.
3. Seasoning: Sprinkle sea salt both on the outside and inside of the fish, followed by freshly ground chili flakes. Then add the olive oil, ensuring the fish is well coated. Finally, sprinkle the spice mix over the entire surface.

Step 2: Marinating
1. Marinating: Let the plaice sit in the refrigerator for one hour. This waiting time will allow the flavors to develop and penetrate the flesh.

Step 3: Preparing the tomatoes
1. Wash the tomatoes: Make sure the cherry tomatoes are well washed. Cut them in half and, if you prefer, you can lightly salt them to enhance their flavor.

Step 4: Baking
1. Preparing the baking tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the plaice in the center of the tray.
2. Stuffing the fish: Stuff the inside of the fish with the halved cherry tomatoes, along with a sprig of whole tomatoes for a special presentation and to add flavor during baking.
3. Baking in the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the tray for 30 minutes. After this time, take the tray out, add the other sprig of cherry tomatoes, and bake for another 10 minutes.

Step 5: Preparing the rice
1. Cooking the rice: While the plaice is baking, prepare the rice. Boil the rice with salted water according to the package instructions.
2. Adding flavors: In a skillet, heat the oil and add finely chopped green onions and parsley. Sauté them lightly to release their flavors, then add the cooked rice and mix well.

Step 6: Serving
1. Serving the dish: Once the plaice is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the fish alongside the rice side dish and add your favorite salad of raw vegetables. You can drizzle the fish with lemon juice, but the tomatoes will already provide a delicate acidity.

Useful tips:
- Wine: A sparkling wine or a dry white wine pairs perfectly with this fish dish, elevating the entire culinary experience.
- Watch out for bones: Plaice has many fine bones, so be sure to pay attention to each piece you serve.
- Variations: You can experiment with various vegetables, adding bell peppers or zucchini to the tray for extra color and nutrients.

Nutritional benefits:
Plaice is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health. Cherry tomatoes add antioxidants and vitamins, while rice provides complex carbohydrates, ensuring you have the energy needed throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, this recipe can be adapted with other types of white fish, such as catfish or perch.
- How can I avoid bones? Use a filleting knife to remove the bones before cooking, if you prefer.

Conclusion:
Preparing a delicious baked plaice is simpler than it seems. With a few fresh ingredients and a bit of attention to detail, you can create a dish that will impress both family and friends. Whether it's for a festive dinner or an everyday meal, this recipe will bring a touch of magic to your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!