Zander fillet

Pike Perch Papillons with Sautéed Vegetables and Lemon Dressing

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 60 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction:

Welcome to the world of delicate fish dishes! Today, I will share a special recipe that combines succulent pike perch fillets with fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing that will bring a touch of freshness to every bite. This recipe is not just a culinary delight but also a healthy choice, packed with essential nutrients. Get ready to impress your family and friends with an elegant and flavorful meal!

I. Ingredients:

To prepare these delicious pike perch papillons, you will need the following ingredients:

- 2 pike perch fillets (approximately 200 g each)
- 2 quail eggs
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 small onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 100 g cantaloupe
- 200 g fresh spinach
- 2-3 tablespoons of butter
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of capers
- 1 lemon (for fresh juice)
- 50 ml white wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish

II. Preparing the pike perch fillets:

1. Preparing the fish: Start by descaling, gutting, and cleaning the pike perch fillets. If you are not familiar with this process, ask a fisherman for help or purchase ready-prepared fillets from the market. It is essential to have fresh fish for a remarkable taste.

2. Filleting: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the fillets from the fish. Make sure to remove the skin and bones, obtaining clean and tender fillets.

3. Preparing the filling: Boil the quail eggs for 3-4 minutes, then quickly cool them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Peel and cut them in half.

4. Chopping the vegetables: Cut the carrot, celery, and cantaloupe into thin sticks so they integrate perfectly into the filling. These will add unique texture and flavors.

5. Filling the fillets: Place half a quail egg on each pike perch fillet, along with a stick of carrot, celery, and cantaloupe. Season with salt and pepper. Carefully roll the fillets, forming a papillon.

6. Cooking: Wrap each papillon in aluminum foil, ensuring it is well sealed. Place them in a pot of salted water when it is already warm. Let them boil for 20 minutes, then remove from the water and let cool slightly before unwrapping the foil.

III. Preparing the spinach garnish:

1. Boiling the spinach: Wash the spinach well and boil it in water for 2-3 minutes. Drain well and chop finely.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: Dice the onion and garlic into small cubes (brunoise) and sauté them in a pan with heated butter and oil. Add the chopped spinach and let it sauté for 5-7 minutes.

3. Adding the vegetables: Cut 2-3 sticks of carrot and add them to the pan for added color and texture. Mix well and let it cook for a few minutes.

4. Melon slices: Cut the cantaloupe into thin slices and add them to the pan to provide a note of freshness and sweetness.

IV. Preparing the dressing:

1. Mixing the ingredients: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, lemon juice, capers, white wine, salt, pepper, and a few drops of soy sauce. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous dressing.

V. Assembling and serving:

1. Serving: On a flat plate, place a portion of the spinach and sautéed vegetable garnish. On top, place the pike perch papillons cut into thick slices.

2. Adding the dressing: Drizzle with the aromatic dressing and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an elegant appearance and exquisite aroma.

VI. Useful tips and variations:

- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the pike perch with tofu fillets or mushrooms, which can be filled in the same way.
- Pairing: This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail. A simple green salad can complete the meal.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of pike perch papillons contains approximately 400 calories, being rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.
- Frequently asked questions: Can the dish be frozen? I recommend not freezing the cooked dish, but the pike perch fillets can be frozen before cooking.

Now that you have discovered this delicious recipe for pike perch papillons, don’t hesitate to try it at home! Cooking is an art that brings joy and flavor into our lives. Enjoy your meal!