Pike with summer vegetables

Pike with Summer Vegetables – a Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a hectic world where cooking time is becoming increasingly limited, it is essential to have quick and healthy recipes at hand. Today, I will present a 2-in-1 recipe that will delight your taste buds and bring a splash of freshness to your plate: pike with summer vegetables. This combination of fish and vegetables is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

About Pike

Pike is a freshwater fish known for its firm, white flesh and delicate flavor. It is an excellent choice due to its high protein content and healthy fats. This recipe highlights the natural flavors of the fish, complemented by the freshness of summer vegetables.

Necessary Ingredients

- 2 pieces of fresh pike (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 lemon
- 400 g summer vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower, broccoli, green beans)
- 50 ml olive oil
- 200 ml semi-dry white wine
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh or dried rosemary, to preference

Step by Step: How to Prepare Pike with Summer Vegetables

1. Preparing the fish: Start by cleaning and washing the two pieces of pike well. It is important to remove all traces of scales and rinse the fish under cold running water. Once done, season it with salt and pepper, letting it chill for about 10 minutes. This step will help intensify the flavors.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, if using fresh vegetables, clean and wash them well. Cut them into suitable pieces so that they cook evenly. If you choose frozen vegetables, no problem – they are a quick and convenient solution. You can use a mix of carrots, peas, cauliflower, broccoli, and green beans, which will add color and texture to the dish.

3. Arranging in the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 200°C. In a baking tray, place a few slices of lemon, which will add a pleasant citrus flavor during baking. On top of the lemon slices, place the prepared pike. Scatter the summer vegetables around the fish, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.

4. Seasoning the dish: Drizzle the ingredients with olive oil and semi-dry white wine. These will help keep the fish juicy and enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to sprinkle rosemary on top – this aromatic herb will give a special touch to the dish.

5. Baking in the oven: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 20 minutes. It is important not to open the oven door in the first 15 minutes to allow the fish to cook evenly and form a delicious crust.

Serving and Suggestions

After the cooking time has expired, remove the tray from the oven and let the dish cool slightly before serving. You can garnish it with fresh lemon slices and a few sprigs of rosemary for a more appealing look. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of semi-dry white wine or fresh lemonade, and for an extra flavor boost, you can accompany the dish with a crunchy green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of fish? Of course! This recipe can be adapted using other types of fish, such as sea bream, trout, or salmon. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fillet.

2. What vegetables can I use? You can experiment with your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even squash can be excellent choices.

3. How can I make the recipe spicier? If you like a spicier taste, you can add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes on top of the vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also extremely healthy. Pike is an excellent source of protein, and summer vegetables provide a generous supply of vitamins and minerals, being rich in fiber. This meal is a suitable choice for those looking to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.

Calories

On average, a serving of pike with summer vegetables contains about 300 calories, depending on the exact amount of oil and vegetables used. It is a filling yet light dish, ideal for a healthy diet.

Possible Variations

If you want to add an exotic touch, you can replace the white wine with soy sauce and a bit of grated ginger, thus creating a recipe inspired by Asian cuisine. Additionally, for an extra flavor, you can add some olives or capers to the baking tray.

So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron and start preparing this simple and tasty recipe. Pike with summer vegetables will surely become one of your favorites, bringing a splash of joy to every meal. Bon appétit!