Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter: Easy Elegance

Why Make This Recipe

Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter is a dish that brings sophistication to any dinner table while remaining surprisingly easy to prepare. The flavors of garlic and dill create a beautiful aroma and taste that combines exquisitely with the natural sweetness of the fish. Baking a whole fish not only looks impressive but also helps to keep the fish moist and tender.

The recipe is great for special occasions or cozy family dinners. It can be served as the star of the meal, accompanied by sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen.

How to Make Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter

This recipe is divided into easy-to-follow steps, ensuring even novice cooks can create this stunning dish without any stress.

Ingredients

To make Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 kg Whole Snapper (you can substitute it with similar round fish like bream or barramundi)
• 1.5 tsp Salt (kosher or cooking)
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil (or melted butter)
• 0.5 cup Fresh Dill Sprigs (packed)
• 0.5 cup Parsley Leaves (packed, optional)
• 4 cloves Garlic (finely sliced)
• 1 whole Lemon (sliced)
• 150 g Unsalted Butter (cut into cubes)
• 2 tsp Minced Garlic
• 1 tbsp Fresh Dill (finely chopped)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to bake your whole fish:

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Start by cleaning the fish. If it’s not already done, make sure to scale and gut the fish. Rinse it under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels.

2. Season the Fish: Rub salt and black pepper all over the fish, both on the outside and inside the cavity. This helps to season the fish well.

3. Add Aromatics: Drizzle olive oil (or melted butter) over the fish. In the cavity of the fish, place half of the fresh dill sprigs, half of the parsley leaves, and the sliced garlic. Add some lemon slices inside as well for extra flavor.

4. Prepare the Baking Dish: Place the fish on a large piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil, which you’ll use to wrap up the fish for cooking. It’s helpful for keeping the steam in, resulting in tender and juicy fish.

5. Make the Garlic & Dill Butter: In a small bowl, combine cubed unsalted butter, minced garlic, and finely chopped fresh dill. Mix well until combined. You can also add a touch of lemon juice if you like a little acidity.

6. Apply the Butter Mixture: Generously spoon the garlic and dill butter over the fish, allowing it to penetrate both the top and the cavity.

7. Wrap the Fish: Fold the parchment or foil over the fish to create a sealed package. This trap the steam and helps cook the fish evenly.

8. Bake: Place the wrapped fish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-35 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fish. The fish is done when the flesh flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) at the thickest part.

9. Finishing Touches: Once the fish is cooked, carefully open the foil or parchment (watch out for steam). You can add more lemon slices on top and sprinkle with the remaining fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.

10. Serve: Move the fish to a serving platter. You can serve it whole or fillet it right away. Pour any remaining garlic and dill butter over the top for added flavor.

How to Serve Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter

Serving Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter is a delightful experience that can impress your guests. Here are some recommended serving ideas:

• Whole Presentation: Serve the fish whole on a large platter, adorned with extra lemon slices and fresh herbs. This creates a stunning centerpiece for your table.

• Accompaniments: Pair the fish with simple sides like roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve crusty bread to soak up the extra garlic butter.

• Family Style: Encourage your guests to help themselves by offering serving spoons and forks for them to take pieces of fish and preferred side dishes.

• Garnishing: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or dill right before serving enhances the visual appeal and adds freshness.

How to Store Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter

If you have leftovers (which can be a rare occurrence with this delicious dish), storing them properly is essential:

• Refrigerate: Allow the fish to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for later enjoyment. Again, make sure the fish is completely cooled. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter

• Fish Quality: Always choose the freshest fish possible for the best flavor. Look for fish with clear eyes and shiny skin.

• Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your fish as it cooks. Thicker fish will need more time, while thinner cuts will cook faster. An average rule is about 10 minutes per inch of thickness.

• Don’t Overcrowd: If baking multiple fish or larger portions, ensure they have enough space in the oven. This helps them cook evenly.

• Variations: Feel free to experiment with aromatics. Other herbs such as thyme or tarragon can also work well, and you can add other vegetables, like onions or tomatoes, inside the cavity for additional flavor.

Variation

The beauty of Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter is how easily it can be adapted. Here are some variations to try:

• Different Fish: You can use other round fish like salmon, trout, or even small mackerel. Each type will bring its unique flavor but follow the same baking steps.

• Seasoning swaps: Feel free to add spices like paprika for heat or citrus zest for more brightness.

• Veggie Options: For a complete meal, add sliced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes around the fish before baking. They will roast and infuse the fish with additional flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen fish. Make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. How do I know when the fish is cooked?

The fish is done when its flesh easily flakes with a fork and is opaque throughout. Additionally, an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) at the thickest part ensures it is safely cooked.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh herbs will give the best flavor, you can substitute dried herbs if fresh ones are not available. Use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

4. Is there a particular side dish that pairs well with this recipe?

Whole Baked Fish pairs excellently with light sides such as a simple greens salad, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. A lemony or herby potato salad would also complement it nicely.

5. What if I can’t find whole fish?

If whole fish isn’t available, you can use fish fillets instead. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fillets will cook much faster than a whole fish.

By following this guide, you’re set to create a delicious and elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whole Baked Fish with Garlic & Dill Butter will surely impress with its flavors and presentation! Happy cooking!

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