Hickory Fish Bake
Hickory Fish Bake offers a smoky, flavorful dish with tender fish infused with lemon and garlic, perfect for outdoor gatherings and seafood lovers. Delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle fish fillets with salt and pepper.
- Arrange half the lemon slices in the bottom of a shallow baking pan.
- Add fish fillets in a single layer on top of the lemon slices.
- Place remaining lemon slices on top of the fish.
- Combine melted butter and minced garlic, then pour over the fish.
- Add hickory to slow coals, then place the baking pan atop the grill.
- Close the hood and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, basting frequently.
- Serve the fish with lemon slices and the butter mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use fresh fish fillets and adjust the amount of garlic to your taste. If hickory isn't available, try using another type of wood for smoking or grilling. You can also substitute lemon with lime for a different citrus note. Basting your fish frequently with the butter mixture during cooking helps to keep it moist and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hickory fish bake with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, such as South Sea Salad, for a light and refreshing meal. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful butter mixture. Consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa for a complete dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the fish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hickory Fish Bake contains roughly 488 calories, with 15g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thawing ensures even cooking and helps the flavors absorb better during the baking process.
What type of fish works best for baking?
Mild, firm fish such as cod, tilapia, or haddock works best for baking. These varieties hold up well to the cooking process and absorb flavors beautifully. Feel free to use your favorite white fish.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely! If you don't have a grill, you can bake the fish in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 25-30 minutes, following the same instructions for layering the lemon and pouring the butter mixture over the fish.
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).