Baked Fish Creole
A flavorful baked fish creole featuring tender fish fillets topped with a savory tomato and vegetable sauce, perfect for a quick, comforting meal for seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place fish fillets in a greased shallow baking dish, ensuring the sauce will cover the fillets completely.
- In a small skillet, melt butter and sauté the chopped green pepper, onion, and garlic until tender.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and heat through.
- Pour the creole sauce over the fish fillets.
- Place thin slices of lemon over the top of the fillets.
- Bake uncovered in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider substituting the fish with a firmer variety like cod or tilapia. If you're short on time, use canned tomatoes in place of fresh ones. Adjust the gumbo file to your taste—start small and add more if desired. This dish can also be enhanced with spices like cayenne or paprika for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Baked Fish Creole with a side of fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A light salad with citrus dressing pairs well, complementing the flavors of the dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside a creamy coleslaw for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Baked Fish Creole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Fish Creole contains roughly 887 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 91g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets for Baked Fish Creole. Just ensure they are fully thawed before baking to ensure even cooking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave if you're short on time.
What can I substitute for fresh tomatoes?
If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, you can easily substitute them with canned diced tomatoes. Use about 1 1/2 cups of canned tomatoes, draining some of the liquid if you prefer a thicker sauce. This will still provide great flavor and make the preparation quicker.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To add more heat to your Baked Fish Creole, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sautéed vegetables. You can also serve with a hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).