Perky Perch
Perky Perch offers tender ocean perch fillets baked with a zesty lemon and herb flavor profile. The seasoning blend enhances the delicate fish, making it perfect for a light, flavorful meal. Ideal for seafood lovers seeking a quick, satisfying dish that pairs well with vegetables or rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put perch fillets in a baking dish.
- Add water, then lemon juice over the fillets.
- In a small bowl, mix together the lemon and herb seasoning with Old Bay seasoning; sprinkle over the fish fillets.
- Add 1 teaspoon of margarine on each fillet; season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake, covered, at 375°F for 30 minutes, or until flaky.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the perch fillets in the lemon juice and seasonings for 30 minutes before baking. If you don't have lemon and herb seasoning, a mix of dried thyme and parsley can work as a substitute. Be cautious with salt, especially if you’re using Old Bay, which is already seasoned. For extra richness, you can substitute margarine with butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Perky Perch with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Scallops or a creamy Tuna Noodle Salad. For a complete dinner, consider adding a grain like quinoa or rice, which can soak up the delicious lemony juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked perch in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them on a low setting, but be careful not to overcook, as this can dry out the fish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Perky Perch contains roughly 90 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 548mg per serving (24% 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 other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ocean perch with other firm white fish such as tilapia, cod, or haddock. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as different fish may vary in thickness.
What if I don't have access to Old Bay seasoning?
If you don’t have Old Bay, you can create a similar flavor by mixing paprika, celery salt, and a dash of cayenne pepper. This will give you a comparable taste profile without altering the essence of the dish.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
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).