Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further than this baked steelhead trout recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a delicious and nutritious meal at home. Steelhead trout, known for its delicate flavor and flaky texture, is baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that's both elegant and satisfying. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and effortless.
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) steelhead trout fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step makes a big difference in the final result.
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Season the Trout: Pat the steelhead trout fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes crispy skin (if using skin-on fillets). Drizzle the fillets with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
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Layer the Flavors: Place the lemon slices in the baking dish. Arrange the trout fillets on top of the lemon. Evenly distribute the minced garlic, parsley, and dill over the fillets. The fresh herbs add a bright, herbaceous flavor that complements the trout beautifully.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the trout is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. Overbaking can dry out the fish, so keep a close eye on it.
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Serve & Enjoy: Carefully remove the baked steelhead trout from the oven. Serve immediately, garnished with extra lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired. This easy recipe is perfect served with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Steelhead Trout:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the fillets for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the fish. It's cooked through when it flakes easily.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will require slightly longer cooking time.
- Skin-on or skin-off: Both options work well! Skin-on fillets will result in crispier skin, while skinless fillets offer a cleaner presentation.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Citrus twist: Substitute lime for lemon, or use a combination of both.
- Herb variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives.
- Add vegetables: Roast asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes alongside the trout for a complete one-pan meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 8-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1-2 grams
This baked steelhead trout recipe is a quick, healthy, and delicious addition to your recipe collection. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients and easy preparation can create a truly memorable meal. Enjoy!