Are you craving a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This recipe recreates the magic of Legal Seafood's famous baked scrod, bringing restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to impress guests. Get ready to experience the delicate sweetness of scrod baked to flaky perfection!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) scrod fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step ensures your scrod bakes evenly and avoids sticking.
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Season the Scrod: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place the scrod fillets in the prepared baking dish and pour the mixture evenly over them, ensuring both sides are coated. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor and creating a delicious crust.
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Optional Wine Infusion: If using white wine, gently pour it over the seasoned scrod. The wine adds a subtle complexity that elevates the overall taste.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the scrod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent overcooking. Overbaked scrod will be dry, so aim for that perfect flaky texture.
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Butter & Garnish: Remove the baking dish from the oven and dot the top of each scrod fillet with small pieces of butter. This adds richness and moisture. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately with lemon wedges. The bright acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter and complements the delicate flavor of the scrod beautifully.
Cooking Tips for the Best Baked Scrod:
- Choosing your Scrod: Look for firm, moist scrod fillets with a fresh, slightly sweet aroma. Avoid fillets that are slimy or have a strong fishy odor.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked scrod will be dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around the 12-minute mark. A good test is to gently flake the thickest part of the fillet with a fork – it should flake easily.
- Baking Dish Matters: Using an oven-safe dish that retains heat well helps to ensure even cooking.
Variations:
- Add Vegetables: Roast asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes alongside the scrod for a complete and healthy meal.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herb Experimentation: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
This easy baked scrod recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your weekly meal rotation. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual lunch, or even a sophisticated dinner party. Enjoy!