Description
Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce is a delightful and healthy dish that combines the lightness of tender fish fillets with a rich, tangy sauce. The creamy lemon sauce adds a refreshing zest, perfectly complementing the mild flavors of the fish. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also makes for an elegant meal suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Creating a delicious Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce requires a handful of essential ingredients that come together to deliver incredible flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients:
- Fresh fish fillets: Choose from mild options like cod, haddock, or tilapia for the best results.
- Lemon: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is key to achieving that bright, zesty flavor in your sauce.
- Cream: Use heavy cream for richness, or opt for alternatives like coconut cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth and aroma to the dish.
- Butter and olive oil: These fats enhance the sauce’s creaminess and provide a beautiful base for cooking.
- Seasonings: Simple salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to include other spices like paprika or cayenne for added warmth.
Optional Ingredients for Additional Flavor:
- Fresh herbs: Parsley or dill can brighten up your dish with fresh notes and color.
- Capers: These little bursts of briny flavor add an exciting tang that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Mustard or white wine: A splash of either can introduce extra acidity and complexity to the sauce.
- Alternative cream options: For those with dietary restrictions, consider using low-fat yogurt or cashew cream as lighter substitutes.
With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be well-equipped to create a mouthwatering baked fish dish that’s sure to impress!
Instructions
Step 1. Prepping the Fish
Start by preparing your fish fillets for baking:
- Clean and Pat Dry: Rinse the fish under cold water and gently pat it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture, ensuring a nice texture.
- Seasoning: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the fillets, then season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple seasoning will enhance the fish’s natural flavors.
Step 2. Making the Lemon Cream Sauce
Next, let’s whip up that delicious lemon cream sauce:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. If you’re using onions, add them along with minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Citrus and Cream: Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, followed by heavy cream (or your chosen alternative). Mix well.
- Simmer to Thicken: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Balance Flavors: Taste your sauce! If it’s too creamy, add a bit more lemon juice for acidity; if it needs richness, consider adding a touch more cream.
Step 3. Baking the Fish
Now it’s time to bake:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the seasoned fish fillets in a greased baking dish in a single layer.
- Pour Sauce Over Fillets: Generously pour the lemon cream sauce over each fillet, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake Time & Doneness Tips: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 4. Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let’s get ready to serve:
- Resting Period: Allow the fish to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven; this helps retain its juices.
- Garnishing: For an extra touch of flavor and presentation, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, alongside lemon wedges or capers.
Enjoy your beautifully baked fish drizzled with luscious lemon cream sauce! It’s perfect served alongside rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Baked