Baked Flounder: A Simple, Elegant, and Delicious Recipe
Are you looking for a healthy, easy-to-make, and delicious seafood recipe? Look no further! This baked flounder recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Flounder is a mild-flavored white fish that's incredibly versatile, making it ideal for baking. This recipe emphasizes simple preparation to let the natural flavor of the flounder shine through.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound flounder fillets: Choose fresh, high-quality fillets for the best flavor. Look for fillets that are firm and have a bright, shiny appearance.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A good quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of your dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best!
- 1 teaspoon dried dill: Or substitute with 2 teaspoons of fresh dill, finely chopped.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory note.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred.
- Optional additions: Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or some chopped fresh parsley for added freshness and color.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your flounder cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Prepare the flounder: Pat the flounder fillets dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Create the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the flounder: Place the flounder fillets in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring each fillet is coated evenly. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for maximum flavor infusion.
- Bake the flounder: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the flounder is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
- Serve and enjoy! Serve your baked flounder immediately. Garnish with extra lemon wedges, fresh dill, or parsley for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions:
This baked flounder recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Simple side dishes: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some fluffy rice.
- Elegant additions: Consider serving it with a lemon butter sauce or a creamy dill sauce for an elevated dining experience.
- Flavor pairings: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Flounder:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure there's enough space between the fillets to allow for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently check if the flounder flakes easily. Overcooked flounder will be dry.
- Fresh ingredients matter: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will significantly impact the overall taste of your dish.
This baked flounder recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity. With minimal effort, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that's sure to impress. Enjoy!
