Dover sole with lemon and butter

Sole (Dover Sole) with lemon and butter: A simple yet refined recipe for an elegant meal

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

If you are looking for an elegant yet simple dish, Sole (Dover Sole) with lemon and butter is the perfect choice. This flatfish, with its delicate flavor and fine texture, is sure to impress. Moreover, the recipe is easy to prepare and is perfect for a special occasion or a Sunday family dinner.

A brief introduction to Sole

Sole, also known as Dover Sole, is a flatfish with white, succulent flesh that is rich in nutrients. It is often appreciated in cuisines around the world for its delicate taste and versatility in preparation. This simple recipe, which highlights the natural flavors of the fish, will provide you with a healthy meal that is low in calories but full of flavor.

Ingredients

- 2 pieces of Sole (Dover Sole) (approximately 250-300 g each) from Sea-Way.ro
- 50 ml dry white wine
- 1-2 organic lemons (for zest and juice)
- 50 g butter (preferably of good quality)
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary utensils

- Baking tray
- Kitchen scissors or a sharp knife
- Grater
- Small mixing bowl
- Pastry brush (optional)
- Serving plate

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the fish: Start by thawing the Sole if it is frozen. Rinse the fish under cold running water and remove any remnants. Note that the fish has a tough, black skin that needs to be removed. Don’t worry! Use a sharp knife to make an incision at the base of the tail. Begin to pull the skin; you may need to use a bit of force, but it should come off easily.

2. Seasoning: Once you have cleaned the fish, place it in a baking tray. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. These will enhance the natural flavors of the fish.

3. Adding the wine: Pour the white wine into the tray, making sure the fish is well covered. The wine will add a subtle flavor and help cook the fish evenly.

4. Baking in the oven: Preheat the oven to 170°C and place the tray with the fish inside. Allow it to bake for 20 minutes. The fish is done when the flesh turns opaque and flakes easily from the bones.

5. Preparing the flavored butter: While the fish is cooking, you can prepare the flavored butter. Finely chop the parsley. Grate the zest of one lemon, being careful not to include the white part, which can be bitter. Mix the chopped parsley and lemon zest with the softened butter in a small bowl. This combination will add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.

6. Finalizing the dish: Once the fish is ready, carefully remove it from the oven and transfer it to a plate. Drizzle it with fresh lemon juice and add pieces of the flavored butter on top. The butter will melt slightly due to the heat of the fish, bringing a creamy and delicious note.

Serving

Sole with lemon and butter can be served alongside roasted vegetables or a smooth mashed potato to create a contrast of textures. You can also add a fresh green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a balanced meal. A glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement this dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This Sole recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Fish is an excellent source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation and supporting heart health. A serving of Sole contains approximately 250 calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a light diet.

Possible variations

If you want to personalize your recipe, you can try the following variations:

- Adding herbs: Instead of parsley, you can use dill or fresh basil to add another flavor profile.
- Grilling the fish: Try grilling the Sole for a unique smoky flavor.
- Capers butter sauce: Add a few capers to the flavored butter for a salty contrast and interesting texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I check if the fish is cooked correctly?
The flesh of the fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it is transparent, it needs more time in the oven.

2. Is it necessary to remove the skin of the fish?
Yes, the tough black skin is not edible, but you can leave the thin skin on the white side if you prefer.

3. Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute Sole with other types of white fish, such as cod or flounder, which have similar textures.

4. How can I store leftovers?
Cooked fish can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days. You can reheat it by steaming or in the oven, but avoid the microwave as it can dry out the flesh.

A personal note

This Sole recipe with lemon and butter reminds me of evenings spent with family, when we gathered around the table to enjoy simple yet flavorful dishes. I hope this recipe brings the same feeling of warmth and joy to your home. Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories.

So, I wish you good luck cooking and enjoying a delicious dish that will surely impress anyone who sits at your table!