Baked Lemon Herb Fish

There are some weeknight dinners that just become instant family favorites, and this Baked Lemon Herb Fish recipe is definitely one of them in our household. From the moment the bright, zesty aroma of lemon and herbs fills the kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat. What I love most about this dish, besides its incredible flavor, is its simplicity. It’s the kind of recipe you can throw together even on the busiest of evenings, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours slaving away. My kids, who can sometimes be a bit picky when it comes to fish, devour this. The flaky, tender fish infused with the vibrant lemon and aromatic herbs is simply irresistible. It’s become our go-to healthy and delicious meal, perfect served alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your own kitchen too!

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs White Fish Fillets (such as cod, haddock, tilapia, or snapper), about 1-inch thick
• 2 Lemons, one thinly sliced and one for juicing
• 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs, chopped (such as parsley, dill, thyme, rosemary, or a mix)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup Olive Oil
• Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper to taste
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes for a touch of heat
• Optional: Fresh herb sprigs for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the fish fillets in a single layer. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. A 9×13 inch baking dish usually works well for this amount of fish.
2. Prepare the Lemon Herb Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, juice of one lemon, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This vibrant marinade is the key to infusing the fish with incredible flavor and keeping it moist during baking.
3. Prepare the Fish Fillets: Rinse the fish fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture and allows the marinade to adhere better. Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish.
4. Marinate the Fish: Pour the lemon herb marinade evenly over the fish fillets, ensuring each fillet is well coated. Gently rub the marinade into the fish to help it penetrate.
5. Layer with Lemon Slices: Arrange the thinly sliced lemon rounds over the fish fillets. This not only adds extra lemon flavor but also helps to keep the fish moist as it bakes. The lemon slices will also caramelize slightly in the oven, adding a beautiful visual appeal to the dish.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact baking time will depend on the thickness of your fish fillets. Start checking for doneness at 12 minutes and adjust accordingly. Avoid overbaking, as this can make the fish dry. You’ll know it’s ready when the flesh is opaque and easily separates.
7. Rest and Garnish (Optional): Once cooked, let the fish rest for a minute or two in the baking dish before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful fish. Garnish with fresh herb sprigs and extra lemon wedges, if desired, for an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Nutrition Facts

(Per Serving, estimated – based on cod and using 4 servings)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 40-45g
• Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 2-3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12-17g
• Cholesterol: 100-120mg
• Sodium: 200-300mg (depending on salt added)
• Carbohydrates: 2-3g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Sugar: <1g

Important Notes:

• Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the type of fish used, specific ingredients, and portion sizes.
• This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and a good source of lean protein and healthy fats.
• For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific ingredients and brands you use.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 27-30 minutes

This recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal!

How to Serve Baked Lemon Herb Fish

This versatile baked fish pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Vegetable Sides:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them alongside the fish or separately. The roasted vegetables complement the light and fresh flavors of the fish perfectly.
  • Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: A simple and healthy side that allows the fish to be the star. A squeeze of lemon juice over the steamed vegetables enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Sautéed Spinach or Kale: Quickly sautéed greens with garlic and a touch of olive oil provide a nutritious and flavorful side.
• Grain and Starch Options:
  • Quinoa: A healthy and protein-rich grain that soaks up the delicious lemon herb sauce from the fish.
  • Brown Rice or Wild Rice: Nutty and wholesome, these rice varieties offer a satisfying base for the flaky fish.
  • Couscous or Orzo Pasta: Light and fluffy, these grains are a great alternative to rice and pair well with the Mediterranean flavors.
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes or Sweet Potato Mash: For a more comforting meal, creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash offer a delightful contrast to the light fish.
• Fresh Salad Pairings:
  • Greek Salad: A refreshing and vibrant salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad cuts through the richness of the fish.
  • Caprese Salad: Simple and elegant, with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and a balsamic glaze.
  • Mixed Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette: A light and crisp salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette mirrors the lemon flavors in the fish and adds a refreshing element.
• Bread and Dips:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful pan juices.
  • Garlic Bread or Focaccia: Enhance the Mediterranean flavors with garlic bread or herbed focaccia.
  • Tzatziki or Hummus: Offer dips like tzatziki or hummus alongside for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Sauce Enhancements:
  • Lemon Butter Sauce: For an extra decadent touch, drizzle a simple lemon butter sauce over the baked fish.
  • Tzatziki Sauce: A cool and creamy tzatziki sauce complements the lemon and herb flavors beautifully.
  • Pesto: A dollop of pesto adds a burst of herbaceous flavor.

Serving Tip: Don’t forget to squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish just before serving to brighten the flavors and add an extra zing!

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Lemon Herb Fish

1. Choose the Right Fish: Select white fish fillets that are firm and flake easily when cooked. Cod, haddock, tilapia, snapper, and halibut are all excellent choices. Consider the thickness of the fillets; thinner fillets will cook faster than thicker ones. Fresh or frozen (thawed) fish works well. If using frozen fish, ensure it is fully thawed before baking and pat it dry to remove excess moisture.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Ensure the fish fillets are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish. Overcrowding can steam the fish instead of baking it, resulting in uneven cooking and less browning. If necessary, use two baking dishes or bake in batches.
3. Adjust Herbs to Your Preference: Feel free to customize the herbs based on your taste and what you have on hand. Parsley and dill are classic choices for fish, but thyme, rosemary, oregano, and basil also work wonderfully. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. Fresh herbs are always preferred for their brighter flavor, but you can substitute with dried herbs if needed. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.
4. Marinate for Flavor Depth: While this recipe is quick and easy, allowing the fish to marinate for even 15-30 minutes (or up to an hour in the refrigerator) will significantly enhance the flavor. The marinade penetrates the fish, making it more flavorful and tender. If marinating for longer than 30 minutes, be sure to refrigerate the fish.
5. Check for Doneness Carefully: Fish cooks quickly, so it’s crucial to check for doneness to avoid overbaking. The fish is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and the flesh is opaque throughout. Start checking around 12 minutes and adjust the baking time based on the thickness of your fillets. Overbaked fish will be dry and tough, while perfectly cooked fish will be moist and tender. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fillet should read 145°F (63°C).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Baked Lemon Herb Fish

Q1: Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can absolutely use frozen fish fillets for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw fish is in the refrigerator overnight. If you need a quicker method, you can place the sealed frozen fish in a zip-top bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30-60 minutes, changing the water every 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, pat the fish dry with paper towels before marinating and baking to remove excess moisture.

Q2: What type of white fish is best for baking?

A: Many types of white fish are excellent for baking. Some of the best options include:

• Cod: A mild-flavored, flaky white fish that holds up well to baking.
• Haddock: Similar to cod, with a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Tilapia: A very mild and affordable white fish that cooks quickly.
• Snapper: A firmer white fish with a slightly sweeter flavor.
• Halibut: A more expensive but very flavorful and firm white fish.
• Pollock: A budget-friendly and mild-flavored white fish, similar to cod.
• Mahi-Mahi: A slightly firmer white fish with a mild, sweet flavor.

Choose a fish that is readily available to you and fits your budget. The key is to select a white fish fillet that is about 1-inch thick for even cooking.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

A: While baked fish is best served fresh, you can prepare certain elements of this dish in advance. You can make the lemon herb marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also prepare your side dishes ahead of time, such as roasting vegetables or making a salad. However, it’s best to bake the fish just before serving for the best texture and flavor. Marinating the fish for up to an hour in the refrigerator before baking is also a great way to get ahead.

Q4: How do I store leftover baked lemon herb fish?

A: To store leftover baked lemon herb fish, let it cool completely to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, leftover baked fish will last for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat leftover fish gently in the oven at a low temperature (around 275°F or 135°C) or in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the texture may be slightly less ideal. Cold baked fish can also be delicious in salads or fish tacos.

Q5: Can I grill the fish instead of baking it?

A: Yes, you can definitely grill lemon herb fish instead of baking it! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor. To grill, preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the marinated fish fillets on a piece of foil or in a grill basket to prevent sticking and flaking. Grill for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The exact grilling time will depend on the thickness of the fish and the heat of your grill. Be sure to monitor the fish closely to prevent it from overcooking and drying out. Grilling is a fantastic option, especially during warmer months, and it imparts a delicious charred flavor to the lemon herb fish.

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