Citrus Baked Fish

Citrus Baked Fish is a light and refreshing seafood dish that marries the delicate flavors of fish with the bright and zesty notes of citrus. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply seeking a healthy and flavorful meal, this recipe is a delightful choice. The combination of fresh fish fillets, vibrant citrus fruits, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious and satisfying culinary experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Citrus Marinade:

  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Baked Fish:

  • 4 fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi), approximately 6 ounces each
  • 2-3 citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, and limes), thinly sliced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Marinating the Fish:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This mixture forms your flavorful citrus marinade.
  2. Place the fish fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
  3. Pour the citrus marinade over the fish, ensuring that it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the fish to absorb the vibrant citrus flavors.

Preparing for Baking:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. While the fish is marinating, thinly slice the citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, and limes) and the red onion.
  3. Prepare a baking dish large enough to accommodate the fish fillets in a single layer. Grease it lightly to prevent sticking.

Assembling and Baking:

  1. Once the fish has marinated, remove it from the refrigerator.
  2. Arrange a layer of sliced citrus fruits and red onion in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a fragrant and flavorful bed for the fish.
  3. Place the marinated fish fillets on top of the citrus and onion bed.
  4. Pour any remaining citrus marinade over the fish.
  5. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.

Serving:

  1. Carefully remove the Citrus Baked Fish from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and additional flavor.
  2. Serve the fish fillets hot, accompanied by the aromatic citrus and onion slices.

Variations and Tips

  • Citrus Varieties: Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as grapefruit, tangerines, or blood oranges, to create unique flavor profiles.
  • Herb Options: Customize the marinade with your choice of fresh herbs like basil, mint, or dill, depending on your taste preferences.
  • Side Dishes: Serve the Citrus Baked Fish alongside steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete and well-balanced meal.
  • Wine Pairing: Pair this dish with a crisp and citrusy white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors.
  • Storage: Any leftover Citrus Baked Fish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

 

Citrus Baked Fish is a vibrant and healthy seafood dish that celebrates the beauty of fresh fish and the invigorating flavors of citrus fruits. This recipe is a fantastic choice when you want a light and refreshing meal that’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious. The combination of zesty citrus, fragrant herbs, and tender fish fillets creates a symphony of flavors that’s both invigorating and satisfying. So, embrace the culinary magic of this dish, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable seafood experience.