Oven-baked carp with vegetables

Oven-Baked Carp with Vegetables - A Feast of Flavors in the Comfort of Home

When it comes to fish dishes, oven-baked carp with vegetables is certainly a favorite in many households. This recipe not only brings a delicious dish to your table but also offers you the chance to enjoy a culinary experience full of flavor. Whether it's a weekend dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will delight all your loved ones. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 3 suitable carp (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 3 large onions
- 1 carrot
- Half a red bell pepper and half a green bell pepper
- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of paprika paste
- 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 glasses of white wine (preferably dry)

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the carp: If the fish are frozen, it is essential to completely thaw them. After that, clean them well. Make shallow cuts across the fish to allow for marinating and flavor absorption. Generously salt them, then rub them with paprika paste and sprinkle with pepper. This will be the base of the seasoning, providing a rich flavor and an inviting appearance.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Slice the onion into rings, the carrot into thin strips (julienne), and the bell peppers into strips and cubes if you prefer. The tomatoes will be sliced. These vegetables will form a delicious bed on which the carp will be placed.

3. Assembling the dish: In a large ceramic dish (or another oven-safe dish), place a layer of onion rings. Continue with the carrot, bell pepper strips, and tomato slices. This base will help enhance the flavors and add juiciness to the fish.

4. Adding the carp: Place the carp on top of the vegetables. Into each carp, insert 2-3 slices of onion, tomato, and lemon. This step is essential as the lemon will add a fresh taste and help eliminate the specific fish odor.

5. Final preparation: On top of the fish, place 2 slices of tomato and drizzle everything with olive oil. This will not only add flavor but also help achieve a golden and crispy crust. Finally, pour the two glasses of white wine around the fish. This will enhance the flavors of the vegetables and add a fine touch to the dish.

6. Marinating: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for an hour. This will allow the ingredients to blend and season.

7. Cooking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. After the marinating time has passed, remove the dish from the refrigerator and place it in the preheated oven. Let the dish bake for about an hour. It is ready when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.

Serving Suggestions

Oven-baked carp pairs perfectly with baked potatoes or mashed potatoes, but make sure to prepare them in separate dishes. The wine used in the preparation does not provide a pleasant taste to the potatoes. Additionally, a fresh raw vegetable salad will add a nice contrast and a touch of freshness. Don’t forget to serve the dish alongside a chilled white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Practical Tips

- Choose fresh carp: Make sure the fish is fresh, with clear eyes and red gills. If you do not have access to fresh carp, freezing it is a good option, but make sure to thaw it correctly.
- Vegetable varieties: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to diversify this dish.
- Spices: Add fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for an extra burst of flavor at the end.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of fish?: Yes, this recipe is also suitable for other types of fish, such as trout or salmon.
- How can I tell when the fish is cooked?: The fish is cooked when the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Is this recipe healthy?: Carp is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and the vegetables add important vitamins and minerals.

Oven-baked carp with vegetables is a simple and delicious recipe that will bring a touch of joy to every bite. So, don’t hesitate to try it and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills! Enjoy!