Perfect Poached Fish

Prep: 5 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 2 Cuisine: American

A delicate poached fish dish featuring tender orange roughy in a flavorful herb-infused milk broth, perfect for a light, healthy, and elegant meal suitable for any occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 4 to 5 oz. orange roughy
  • 1/4 tsp. basil
  • herb pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup skim milk

Instructions

  1. Place the fish in individual baking dishes and sprinkle with basil and herb pepper.
  2. Pour the skim milk around the fish.
  3. Bake at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes.
  4. When the milk starts to boil, the fish is done perfectly.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce before baking. You can substitute orange roughy with other mild white fish like tilapia or cod. Adjust the seasoning based on your taste; adding garlic powder or fresh herbs could enhance the dish. This recipe is quite forgiving, so don't worry if the fish pieces vary in thickness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the poached fish over a bed of steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a healthy meal. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or quinoa for added texture and flavor. For a complete dining experience, consider serving it alongside a refreshing dessert like the Quick Strawberry Dessert to cleanse the palate.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a baking dish, add a splash of skim milk to keep it moist, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can overcook the fish.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Perfect Poached Fish contains roughly 458 calories, with 49g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (98% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium.

458 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 49.2g 98% DV
Total Fat 8.4g 11% DV
Carbs 43.3g 16% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 27.6g 55% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 329.4mg 14% DV
Potassium 516.2mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 163.6mg 55% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 162.5mcg 18% DV
Vitamin C 9.4mg 10% DV
Vitamin D 1mcg 5% DV
Calcium 269.1mg 21% DV
Iron 5.9mg 33% DV
Diet fit High-protein Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fish; just ensure it's fully thawed before cooking. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness by ensuring the fish flakes easily with a fork.

What if I don't have skim milk?

If skim milk isn't available, you can substitute it with low-fat milk or even vegetable broth for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives will still provide moisture to the fish while baking.

How can I tell when the fish is done?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through. The milk should be simmering, which indicates that the fish has cooked thoroughly. Avoid overcooking to keep the fish tender.

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).

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