Baked Grouper: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Baking grouper is a fantastic way to enjoy this flaky white fish without sacrificing flavor or ease. This recipe focuses on simplicity, allowing the natural sweetness of the grouper to shine through while adding just enough zest to elevate the dish. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs Grouper fillet, skin on or off (your preference!) Choose a fillet that's about 1-inch thick for even cooking.
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil - A high-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor significantly.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice - Freshly squeezed is best!
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder - This adds a savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano - A classic pairing with fish.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt - Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper - Freshly ground is preferred.
- Optional additions: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill, 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your grouper cooks evenly and to perfection.
- Prepare the Grouper: Pat the grouper fillet dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes crispier skin (if using skin-on).
- Create the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. If using optional additions, add them now.
- Marinate the Fish: Pour the marinade over the grouper fillet, ensuring it's evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes (longer is even better!), allowing the flavors to penetrate.
- Bake the Grouper: Place the marinated grouper fillet in a baking dish. You can line the dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillet. Thicker fillets will require a longer baking time.
- Serve and Enjoy! Garnish with fresh herbs (if not already included in the marinade) and serve immediately. This baked grouper is delicious on its own or paired with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Grouper:
- Don't overcook! Overcooked grouper will be dry and tough. It's better to slightly undercook it than overcook it.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations. Consider using different citrus juices like lime or orange.
- Consider the size of your fillet: Adjust baking time accordingly, depending on the thickness of the grouper. Thicker fillets will require longer baking times.
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