Haddock Recipes: Oven-Baked Goodness for Every Taste
Haddock, a flaky white fish with a delicate flavor, is a fantastic choice for a healthy and delicious meal. Its mild taste makes it incredibly versatile, lending itself to a wide array of seasonings and cooking methods. This post will explore some fantastic oven-baked haddock recipes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. We'll cover everything from simple preparations to more elaborate dishes, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Why Oven-Baked Haddock?
Oven-baking haddock offers several advantages:
- Healthy: Baking is a low-fat cooking method, allowing the natural flavors of the haddock to shine through. You can control the amount of added fat and sodium, making it a healthier alternative to frying.
- Easy: Oven-baked recipes are generally simple to prepare, requiring minimal active cooking time. Many recipes involve minimal cleanup as well!
- Versatile: The mild flavor of haddock pairs well with a wide array of flavors, from herbs and spices to vibrant vegetables and creamy sauces. This allows for endless recipe variations.
- Consistent Results: Oven baking produces consistently cooked haddock, reducing the risk of overcooking or undercooking.
Simple & Delicious Oven-Baked Haddock Recipes
Lemon Herb Baked Haddock
This recipe is a classic for a reason. Its simplicity allows the haddock's delicate flavor to take center stage.
Ingredients:
- Haddock fillets (about 6 ounces per person)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme – choose your favorites!)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place haddock fillets in a baking dish.
- Top each fillet with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the haddock is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Garlic and Parmesan Baked Haddock
For a richer flavor profile, try this garlic and parmesan variation.
Ingredients:
- Haddock fillets
- Minced garlic
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Breadcrumbs (optional, for added texture)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place haddock fillets in a baking dish.
- Top with minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
- (Optional) Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for added texture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
More Adventurous Oven-Baked Haddock Recipes
Mediterranean Baked Haddock with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe combines the delicate haddock with the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
- Haddock fillets
- Cherry tomatoes
- Red onion, sliced
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese
- Oregano
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss cherry tomatoes, red onion, and olives with olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Roast vegetables for 15 minutes.
- Add haddock fillets to the baking dish.
- Bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until haddock is cooked through.
- Crumble feta cheese over the top before serving.
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Baked Haddock
This recipe offers a creamy and comforting twist on classic baked haddock.
Ingredients:
- Haddock fillets
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Fresh spinach
- Heavy cream or coconut milk
- Garlic
- Onion
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté garlic and onion until softened.
- Add canned tomatoes, spinach, and cream. Simmer until spinach wilts.
- Place haddock fillets in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato mixture over the haddock.
- Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until haddock is cooked through and sauce is bubbly.
Remember to adjust cooking times based on the thickness of your haddock fillets. Always check for doneness by flaking the fish with a fork; it should flake easily when cooked through. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked haddock!