Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This baked fish with lemon herb stuffing is the perfect solution for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, packed with flavor, and offers a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy dose of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. This recipe is a delightful example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly memorable dish. It's one of those best recipes that's both impressive and surprisingly straightforward.
Ingredients:
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For the Fish:
- 4 (6-ounce) white fish fillets (cod, haddock, or tilapia work well)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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For the Lemon Herb Stuffing:
- 1 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
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Prepare the stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine bread crumbs, parsley, dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, Parmesan cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. This flavorful mixture will be the heart of your dish.
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Assemble the fish: Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon the lemon herb stuffing evenly over the top of each fillet.
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Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
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Serve: Serve immediately. This dish is delightful on its own or with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. It's a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Baked Fish with Lemon Herb Stuffing:
- Don't overbake the fish: Overbaked fish can become dry. Start checking for doneness around 15 minutes.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs provide a much brighter and more vibrant flavor than dried herbs.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less lemon juice, garlic, or herbs, depending on your preference.
- Add some heat: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the stuffing.
Variations:
- Mediterranean twist: Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to the stuffing.
- Creamy stuffing: Stir in 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or sour cream to the stuffing for a richer flavor and texture.
- Different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, oregano, or chives.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This baked fish with lemon herb stuffing recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that are easy to make. It’s a delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!