Fish Baked In An Herb Crust
Delight in this herb-crusted baked fish, featuring tender fillets coated in a savory basil and bread crumb crust, paired with a vibrant roasted tomato and red pepper sauce. Perfect for those seeking a flavorful, healthy seafood dish with fresh herb notes. Suitable for dinner parties or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the fish fillets all over with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and set aside for 5 minutes to marinate.
- Place chopped red pepper and remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat.
- Saute for 5 minutes.
- Add chicken stock and chopped plum tomatoes.
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes or until vegetables soften.
- Transfer the vegetable mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.
- Keep the puree warm.
- Chop the fresh basil and add it to the bread crumbs.
- Dredge the fish fillets in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure adherence.
- Sear the fish for 3 minutes on each side in the pan.
- Transfer the fish to a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 4 minutes on each side or until crispy.
- Serve the crispy fish with the warm tomato and red pepper sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the dry bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; consider adding parsley or dill alongside the basil. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture while sautéing. Ensure the fish fillets are patted dry before marinating for better adherence of the crust.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of lemony couscous or a fresh arugula salad for a light, complementary meal. A glass of chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, enhances the flavors. Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or alongside Greek Chicken for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness. The sauce can be reheated gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fish Baked In An Herb Crust contains roughly 953 calories, with 17g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1059mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
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. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, ensuring the herb crust adheres well during cooking.
What other vegetables can I add to the sauce?
You can customize the sauce by adding zucchini, spinach, or even artichokes for extra flavor. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly and blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving. This can save time when you’re ready to cook the fish, allowing for a quick and delicious meal.
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).