White fish with lemongrass and asparagus

White fish with lemongrass and asparagus

I propose a simple, easy, and refined dish, perfect for lazy evenings when you want to indulge in a healthy and flavorful meal. White fish with lemongrass and asparagus is a delicious combination that blends the delicate taste of fish with the fresh and citrusy aroma of lemongrass, complemented by the crunchy texture of asparagus. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutritional benefits, being rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 2 pieces of white fish, boneless (e.g., cod, trout, or bass)
- 1 stalk of lemongrass
- 300 grams of asparagus (one bunch)
- 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon or lime juice (optional, for an intensified flavor)

Ingredient tips:
For a perfect result, choose fresh fish with firm flesh. You can check freshness by smell: fresh fish should not have a strong odor. Lemongrass is an exotic ingredient but easy to find in most supermarkets or Asian grocery stores. Make sure the asparagus is fresh, with firm stems and bright green color.

Preparing the fish:
1. Start by washing the fish pieces well under cold running water. Then, pat them dry with a kitchen towel. This step is essential for ensuring even frying.
2. Season the fish on both sides with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. These spices will add a flavorful taste and perfectly complement the aroma of lemongrass.

Infusing lemongrass:
3. The lemongrass stalk needs to be prepared properly. Lightly crush the stalk with the side of a knife to release its aromas. Then, cut the stalk into sticks about 3 cm long.
4. In a frying pan, heat 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the lemongrass sticks to the hot oil and let them infuse for 5 minutes. This step will enrich the oil with the distinct aroma of lemongrass.

Cooking the fish:
5. After the infusion time has expired, place the fish pieces in the pan, pressing down lightly with your fingers to ensure even cooking. Cook the fish for 2.5 minutes on each side or until it turns golden and flakes easily with a fork.

Preparing the asparagus:
6. In a pot, add one liter of water and a little salt, then bring to a boil. Meanwhile, clean the asparagus by removing the woody tops, then wash it under cold water.
7. Once the water is boiling, add the asparagus and let it boil for 10 minutes. It will become tender but will retain a crunchy texture.
8. After boiling, stop the cooking process by running the asparagus under cold water. This step will preserve the vibrant color and nutrients.

Assembling the dish:
9. For serving, first place the asparagus on the plate, and then place the piece of fish on top. If desired, you can add a few drops of lemon or lime juice on the fish for an even more intense flavor.

Personalized version:
If you want to add extra flavor, you can also add a few thin slices of ginger or garlic to the olive oil before adding the lemongrass. These ingredients will add another level of complexity to the flavor of the dish.

Nutritional notes:
This recipe is rich in protein, thanks to the fish, and contains a significant amount of vitamins and minerals from the asparagus, which is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. Olive oil provides healthy fats, and lemongrass is known for its antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:
- What type of fish can I use? You can opt for cod, bass, or trout, all having a fine texture and delicate taste.
- How can I keep asparagus fresh? Choose asparagus that is firm and crunchy, and to keep it fresh, I recommend storing it in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp towel.
- Can I use something else instead of lemongrass? You can try using lemon or lime zest for a similar taste, although the aroma will not be as complex.

This white fish dish with lemongrass and asparagus is not just a delicious meal but also an unforgettable culinary experience, perfect to be enjoyed with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. I hope this recipe brings you joy and satisfaction in the kitchen! Bon appétit!