Saucy Skillet Fish
A creamy, flavorful skillet fish dish with a savory sour cream sauce, perfect for a quick and elegant dinner that highlights tender fish and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the flour, salt, paprika, and pepper.
- Add the fish to the bag and shake to coat; if using fillets, cut into serving-size pieces first.
- In a skillet, saute the sliced onion in butter until tender; remove and set aside.
- Add the coated fish to the skillet and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes on each side or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Return the cooked onion to the skillet.
- Stir in the sour cream, dried basil, and minced fresh parsley, and cook until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of flour for coating the fish. You can also substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can enhance the dish's freshness. If you're short on time, pre-sliced onions can save prep time, and you can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the saucy skillet fish over a bed of rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine and is a great centerpiece for a casual dinner or special occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the skillet over low heat and gently warm the fish until just heated through, taking care not to overcook it, which can dry out the fish. You can also microwave it in short intervals, covered, with a splash of water.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Skillet Fish contains roughly 1175 calories, with 48g protein, 231g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (254% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (159% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1665mg per serving (72% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just ensure to thaw them completely before coating and cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents excess moisture from affecting the sauce.
What can I substitute for the fish?
If you don't have halibut, haddock, or salmon, you can use any firm white fish like cod or tilapia. For a vegetarian option, consider using eggplant or portobello mushrooms, though cooking times will vary.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture. You can also serve it with a spicy aioli or hot sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick.
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).