Fish with lemon on a hot pan

Lemon Fish Cooked in a Hot Pan - a Simple and Delicious Recipe

If you are looking for an easy-to-make fish recipe that is healthy and full of flavor, you have come to the right place! This lemon fish cooked in a hot pan recipe is not only quick but also a culinary experience that will delight your senses. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you will appreciate the ease and exceptional result.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 8 pieces of fish fillet (you can use mackerel, pangasius, or any other preferred type)
- 2-3 slices of fresh lemon
- 3-4 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon of fish seasoning (or to taste)
- Salt (optional, to taste)

Personal note: This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want to prepare a healthy and quick meal. You can also add some olives or cherry tomatoes for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Brief history of the recipe:
The dish of fish cooked with simple flavors, such as lemon and bay, has been popularized over time due to its ease of preparation and fresh taste. Lemon, with its acidity, helps enhance the texture of the fish, while bay adds a subtle note of flavor. This recipe has evolved over the years, being reinterpreted in different cultures, but its essence remains the same: celebrating simple and healthy ingredients.

Step-by-step preparation of the recipe:

1. Choose the fish: Start by selecting your favorite fish fillets. Mackerel is an excellent choice due to its rich flavor and high omega-3 fatty acid content. Pangasius, on the other hand, has a delicate texture and is a more affordable option. Make sure the fillets are fresh and of good quality.

2. Preheat the pan: Use a quality non-stick pan. Heat the pan over medium heat. When the pan is well heated, it’s time to add the fish fillets.

3. Place the fillets in the pan: Place the fish fillets in the pan, skin side down (if they have skin). Make sure not to overlap them so they cook evenly.

4. Season: Sprinkle the fish seasoning over the fillets. This mix will add depth and flavor to your dish. Then add the lemon slices on top of each fillet and place the bay leaves around them. The lemon will not only flavor the fish but will also help keep it juicy.

5. Cooking: Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the temperature to 150 degrees C. This slow cooking process will allow the fish to cook evenly and retain its juiciness. Let the fish cook for about 20 minutes.

6. Check and serve: After 20 minutes, check if the fish is cooked. It should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If it’s ready, carefully remove it from the pan and serve immediately.

Serving suggestions:
This lemon-flavored fish pairs perfectly with a side of basmati rice or steamed vegetables. You can also pair this dish with a fresh salad with lemon dressing to create a wonderful contrast of textures and flavors. If you want to add a crunchy note, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top.

Possible variations:
To add another layer of flavor, you can experiment with different herbs, such as dill or parsley, adding them in the last few minutes of cooking. You can also replace the lemon slices with oranges for a sweeter and more exotic note.

Nutritional benefits:
Fish is an excellent source of protein, omega-3s, and vitamins, having a positive impact on cardiovascular health. Lemon adds a boost of vitamin C, strengthening the immune system and improving iron absorption from foods.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen fish? Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets, but make sure they are completely thawed before cooking.
- What type of fish seasoning should I choose? Choose a fish seasoning that contains natural ingredients without artificial additives. You can even make a spice mix at home using salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs.
- How can I prevent the fish from sticking? Using a quality non-stick pan and cooking at a consistent temperature are essential to prevent sticking.

In conclusion, this lemon fish cooked in a hot pan recipe is not only simple and quick but also a healthy choice that will bring joy to your table. Don’t forget to enjoy the cooking process and experiment with ingredients and flavors that make you feel good. Enjoy your meal!