Fish Italiano
Creamy fish bake with savory mayonnaise, Parmesan, and herbs, baked to perfection—ideal for a comforting family dinner or special occasion seafood delight.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour melted margarine into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange thinly sliced onion evenly on the bottom of the dish.
- Place fish filets in a single layer atop the onion.
- Combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and salt to make the topping mixture.
- Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly on top of the fish.
- Sprinkle with oregano and chopped parsley to taste.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor; try adding basil or thyme along with the parsley. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the topping mixture. Make sure not to overbake the fish to keep it moist and flaky.
Serving Suggestions
This Fish Italiano pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside pasta, such as Linguine Puttanesca, or a side of garlic bread. A chilled glass of white wine complements the flavors perfectly, making it a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the fish in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the fish doesn't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fish Italiano contains roughly 309 calories, with 12g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (85% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 595mg per serving (26% 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 filets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish filets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the dish. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture from affecting the texture.
What types of fish work best for Fish Italiano?
Mild white fish, such as tilapia, cod, or flounder, are ideal for this recipe. They absorb the flavors well and yield a flaky texture when baked. Avoid oily fish, as they may overpower the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to a day. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
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).