Whitefish Florentine
Whitefish Florentine offers tender whitefish topped with a flavorful spinach and bread crumb mixture, baked to perfection. A hearty, nutritious dish suited for fish lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle the whitefish fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place half of the fish in the bottom of a greased baking dish.
- Spread a mixture of chopped spinach, bread crumbs, minced onion, and enough milk or water to moisten over the fish.
- Drizzle melted butter or margarine over the spinach mixture.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise with water to make a dressing, and spread it over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the topping is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of garlic powder or some grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture. If you don't have whitefish, any mild fish like tilapia or cod can be substituted. To make this recipe lighter, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or reducing the amount of butter used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the whitefish florentine with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine or lemon-infused water for a refreshing drink. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside rice or quinoa, which can absorb the delicious flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the whitefish florentine in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, a microwave can be used, but be cautious to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whitefish Florentine contains roughly 590 calories, with 22g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2661mg per serving (116% 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 whitefish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, frozen whitefish fillets can be used. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking to allow for even cooking and proper seasoning. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before seasoning and layering in the baking dish.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?
If you're looking for a mayo substitute, Greek yogurt works well and adds a tangy flavor. You can also use sour cream or a mix of cottage cheese and lemon juice for a lighter option. Just be aware that this may slightly alter the texture and taste of the dish.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The topping should be golden brown. If you're unsure, use a food thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of 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).