Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner? Look no further! This easy striped bass recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a fantastic homemade meal. Striped bass, known for its flaky white meat and delicate flavor, is surprisingly simple to cook and offers a world of culinary possibilities. This recipe highlights the fish's natural goodness with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced cooks. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) striped bass fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your striped bass cooks evenly and perfectly.
Prep the fish: Pat the striped bass fillets dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the fish's natural flavor.
Sear the fillets (optional): For a beautifully browned exterior, heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the striped bass fillets for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly golden. This step is optional, but it adds a delicious textural contrast.
Bake to perfection: Arrange the lemon slices and minced garlic in the skillet. Place the seared (or unseared) fillets on top. If using, pour the white wine around the fish. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can make the fish dry, so keep an eye on it.
Garnish & Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the striped bass. Serve immediately. This easy recipe pairs well with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Cooking Tips for the Best Striped Bass:
- Don't overcook! Overcooked striped bass becomes dry and tough. It's best cooked just until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Use an oven-safe skillet: This makes transferring the fish from the stovetop to the oven seamless.
- Adjust cooking time: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. Always check for doneness.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to substitute other herbs like dill, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Style: Add cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese to the skillet before baking.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet for a little heat.
- Lemon-Herb Butter: Melt some butter with lemon zest and herbs and drizzle over the cooked fish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate (depending on cooking method and additions)
This easy striped bass recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy and delicious meals. The quick cooking time and minimal ingredients make it perfect for busy weeknights, while the delicious results will impress even the most discerning palates. Enjoy!