Filet of pike perch with Barilla pasta

Pike Perch Fillet with Barilla Pasta – A Simple and Refined Recipe

Pike perch is a delicate fish with a fine texture and subtle flavor, perfectly suited for pasta and a flavorful sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also combines flavors in a truly special way, bringing to the table a dish worthy of the most esteemed restaurants. Moreover, it is an excellent option for a quick dinner or a weekend lunch, full of flavor and color. Let’s discover together the necessary steps to prepare this delight!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 large pieces of pike perch fillet
- 50 g butter
- 1 box of Barilla pasta (Mezze Penne Tricolore)
- 1 jar of Uncle Ben’s Greek sauce
- Salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground pink pepper (to taste)
- A pinch of sweet paprika
- A pinch of dried tarragon
- A pinch of rosemary
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the pike perch fillet:

1. Washing and drying the fish: Start by thoroughly washing the pike perch fillets under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. After washing, place them on absorbent towels to drain excess water. This step is essential for achieving an even and crispy fry.

2. Seasoning the fillet: In a small bowl, prepare a spice mix. Add salt, freshly ground pink pepper, a pinch of dried tarragon, and a pinch of rosemary. These flavors will enhance the taste of the pike perch and give it a distinctive character. Rub the fillets with this mix, ensuring they are well coated.

3. Frying the fillet: In a non-stick skillet, add 50 g of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and starts to bubble, carefully add the pike perch fillets. Fry them for 2 minutes on each side, or until they become golden and slightly crispy. After frying, transfer them to a paper towel to drain excess butter.

Preparing the pasta:

1. Boiling the pasta: In a pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Add a cube of butter to give the pasta extra flavor and make it creamier. Once the water is boiling, add the Barilla pasta (Mezze Penne Tricolore) and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 10 minutes, until al dente.

2. Draining the pasta: After the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and quickly rinse it under a stream of cold water to stop the cooking process. This technique helps maintain the perfect texture of the pasta.

Assembling the dish:

1. Serving: On each plate, place a generous portion of pasta. On top, carefully place the pike perch fillet, and then add the Uncle Ben's Greek sauce, which adds flavor and moisture.

2. Garnishing: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for an extra touch of color and flavor. This garnish not only enhances the appearance of the plate but also adds a note of freshness.

Useful tips:

- Sauce variations: If you want to explore different flavors, you can replace the Greek sauce with a spicy tomato sauce or a lemon and butter sauce that highlights the fish's taste.
- Choosing the pasta: You can experiment with different types of Barilla pasta, such as farfalle or fusilli, to bring a new texture to the dish.
- A garnish idea: A fresh green salad with cherry tomatoes and olive oil would perfectly complement this dish, offering a crunchy and healthy note.

Nutritional benefits:

Pike perch is an excellent source of protein, having a low saturated fat content, making it ideal for a healthy diet. Pasta, especially whole grain, provides essential carbohydrates for energy, and the Greek sauce is rich in vegetables, bringing in vitamins and minerals. This recipe is balanced and nutritious, perfect for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, you can replace pike perch with fillets of dorado, perch, or even salmon, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store leftovers? If you have leftovers, you can keep the dish in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little butter to revive the flavors.

This recipe for pike perch fillet with Barilla pasta is not only easy to make but also an excellent way to bring delicious fish to your table. Whether you have guests or want to treat yourself, this dish will surely be appreciated. Enjoy your meal!