Crab with oranges and broccoli

Oven-Baked Carp with Oranges and Broccoli: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Who doesn't love a light meal, full of flavors and colors? This recipe for oven-baked carp with oranges and broccoli is perfect for a quick yet sophisticated dinner. Besides being delicious, it is also a healthy option, rich in proteins and vitamins, ideal for those who want to enjoy a balanced meal.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 fresh carp (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 broccoli (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 oranges (juice and slices for garnish)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 50 g bacon
- 50 g butter
- Salt (to taste)

A Bit of History

Carp is a versatile fish used in various dishes around the world. Over time, it has been appreciated not only for its delicate taste but also for its high protein and omega-3 fatty acid content. By combining it with oranges, we bring a note of freshness and a citrus flavor that enhances it, making it an excellent choice for family meals. Broccoli, on the other hand, is a nutrient-rich vegetable, offering many health benefits, and when steamed or lightly boiled, it retains its vibrant color and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Fish

1. Cleaning the carp: Make sure the carp is well cleaned and washed. Remove all scales and internal organs, then rinse it under cold running water. This is an essential step to achieve a tasty dish.

2. Scoring the fish: Using a sharp knife, make deep cuts along the back of the carp, every 3-4 cm. This will allow the marinade to penetrate better into the flesh.

Step 2: Marinating the Carp

3. Preparing the marinade: In a bowl, combine the juice from the two oranges with 4 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, and salt to taste. This mixture will add a wonderful flavor to the fish.

4. Coating the carp: Using a cooking brush or even your hands, coat the carp with the orange mixture, ensuring it gets into every score. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 3: Preparing the Bacon and Garlic

5. Slicing the bacon: Cut the bacon into thin slices. These will add a savory flavor during baking.

6. The garlic: Peel the 4 cloves of garlic and cut them in half. Place a piece of bacon and half a clove of garlic in each cut on the back of the carp. This will provide an intense flavor and a special taste.

Step 4: Baking the Carp

7. Preparing the baking tray: Place the carp in a baking tray lined with parchment paper or olive oil to prevent sticking.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the tray with the marinated carp inside. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh becomes opaque and lightly browned. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't dry out, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.

Step 5: Preparing the Broccoli

9. Preparing the broccoli: Meanwhile, wash the broccoli and cut it into florets. Boil it in salted water, uncovered, for 5-7 minutes. This will keep its bright color and nutrients.

10. Transferring the broccoli: After boiling, drain the broccoli in a colander and transfer it to the tray with the carp, placing it around the fish.

Step 6: Finishing the Dish

11. Adding the butter: Place a slice of butter on each broccoli floret. It will melt and add a delicious flavor.

12. Final baking: Put the tray back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes, until the butter is completely melted and the broccoli is lightly browned.

Serving

13. Serving the dish: Once the carp is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Place it on a large platter, garnish with orange slices, and serve warm alongside the broccoli.

Tips and Useful Advice

- For an even more intense flavor, you can add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, both in the marinade and at serving.
- For a spicy version, add some chili flakes to the orange marinade.
- The broccoli can be replaced with other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, depending on your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it and dry it well before marinating.
- What other side dishes pair well? Rice or quinoa are excellent side dishes, adding healthy carbohydrates.
- How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian diet? You can replace the carp with tofu fillets or large mushrooms, such as Portobello mushrooms, which can be prepared in the same way.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in high-quality proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins, thanks to both the carp and broccoli. Additionally, the oranges provide a significant amount of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Conclusion

Oven-baked carp with oranges and broccoli is a recipe that combines health with exceptional taste. With simple preparation and accessible ingredients, you will impress family and friends with this delicacy. Don't forget to savor every bite and enjoy the fresh flavors! Enjoy your meal!