Are you tired of bland, dry fish that leaves you disappointed? Get ready to transform your dinner game with this mouthwatering Garlic Baked Fish recipe that will make your taste buds dance! In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that's so simple, even beginner cooks can master it. Imagine tender, flaky fish infused with rich garlic and bright lemon flavors – a culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle for even cooking.
- Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a better golden crust and prevents steaming.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the fish from sticking during baking.
- Season both sides of the fish fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Mince the garlic cloves finely, releasing their aromatic oils and flavor potential.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fish fillets, then sprinkle the minced garlic evenly across the top.
- Arrange lemon slices on and around the fish fillets to infuse citrus flavor and moisture during baking.
- Place the prepared fish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh lemon wedges or chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Pat the fish fillets completely dry before seasoning to ensure a golden, crispy exterior.
- Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor – pre-minced garlic from a jar won't deliver the same aromatic punch.
- Choose fresh, high-quality fish fillets like cod, halibut, or sea bass for the best results.
- Don't overcook! Fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Let the fish rest for 2-3 minutes after baking to redistribute juices and maintain moisture.
- For extra flavor, try adding herbs like fresh parsley or dill before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for food safety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
