If you're looking to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that's as vibrant as it is delicious, look no further than our Salsa Verde Flounder with Cilantro Lime Rice! This Mexican-inspired recipe is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of the coast. With tender flounder fillets smothered in zesty salsa verde and fluffy cilantro lime rice, this meal can be on your table in just 30 minutes! Ready to impress your family or guests with a dish that's sure to be a hit? Let’s dive into the details of this culinary delight!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 flounder fillets
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup rice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 flounder fillets, 1 cup salsa verde, 1 cup rice, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped), 1 lime (juiced), salt to taste, and 2 cups of water.
- Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the flounder. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, place the flounder fillets in a single layer. Season with salt to taste.
- Pour 1 cup of salsa verde evenly over the flounder fillets, ensuring they are well coated.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the fish moist while it cooks.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through.
- While the flounder is baking, prepare the cilantro lime rice. After the rice has rested, fluff it with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro and the juice of 1 lime. Adjust salt to taste.
- Once the flounder is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- To serve, place a generous scoop of cilantro lime rice on each plate, top with a flounder fillet, and drizzle any remaining salsa verde from the baking dish over the top.
- Garnish with additional cilantro if desired and enjoy your Salsa Verde Flounder with Cilantro Lime Rice!
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. This ensures your rice is fluffy and not sticky.
- Seasoning Matters: Don’t skip the pinch of salt when boiling your rice. It enhances the flavor and makes the dish more savory.
- Watch the Flounder: Keep an eye on the flounder while it bakes. It should flake easily with a fork when done. Overcooking can lead to dryness, so check it a few minutes early if you're unsure.
- Customize Your Salsa Verde: Feel free to use homemade or store-bought salsa verde, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of cumin to enhance the flavors!
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Adding extra chopped cilantro on top before serving not only adds a pop of color but also boosts the fresh flavor profile of the dish.
- Make it a Meal: Serve with a side of black beans or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 55mg
