Creamy Lemon-Baked Fish Delight
This Creamy Lemon-Baked Fish Delight is a simple yet satisfying dish that can elevate any lunch or dinner. Originally inspired by a classic recipe from the 'Reflections of the West' cookbook, this version utilizes firm white fish, such as Halibut or Cod, dressed in a luxurious sour cream and mayonnaise sauce enriched with zesty green onions and a hint of spice. Perfectly baked until flaky and topped with melted cheddar cheese, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served at a cozy gathering, it promises to please everyone at the table. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fish fillets
2 (Cut in half, 1 inch thick, about 8 oz each)
Water
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (N/A)
Salt
to taste (N/A)
Pepper
to taste (N/A)
Sour cream
1/4 cup (N/A)
Mayonnaise
1/4 cup (N/A)
Green onion
1/4 cup (Sliced)
Lemon juice
1 teaspoon (N/A)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (N/A)
Ground red pepper
1/8 teaspoon (N/A)
Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup (Shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2
Cut the fish fillets in half to create four equal portions.
3
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of water with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Use this mixture to brush both sides of the fish fillets evenly.
4
Sprinkle the fish with a pinch of salt and pepper, remembering that the topping will also have seasoning.
5
Place the fish fillets in a lightly greased 11 x 7 x 0.5 inch baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
6
Bake the fish uncovered in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
7
While the fish is baking, prepare the topping by combining the sour cream, mayonnaise, sliced green onions, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir until smooth.
8
Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and spoon the sour cream mixture evenly over each portion.
9
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the fish and return it to the oven.
10
Bake uncovered for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sauce is heated through.
11
Remove from the oven and serve immediately, enjoying the warm, creamy goodness.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of fish is best for Creamy Lemon-Baked Fish Delight?
Firm white fish fillets such as Halibut or Cod are recommended for this recipe.
What temperature should I set my oven to?
You should preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) for the best results.
How should I prepare the fish fillets before baking?
Cut the fillets in half to create four equal portions, approximately 1 inch thick.
What is used to brush the fish before it goes into the oven?
A mixture of 1 tablespoon of water and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice is used to brush both sides of the fish.
How long is the initial baking time for the fish?
The fish should be baked uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes until it flakes easily.
What ingredients are in the creamy topping?
The topping includes sour cream, mayonnaise, sliced green onions, lemon juice, salt, and ground red pepper.
When do I add the cheese to the dish?
Add the shredded cheddar cheese on top after the initial baking period and after applying the sour cream mixture.
How long does the fish bake after adding the topping?
Bake the fish for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is heated.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe contains 1/8 teaspoon of ground red pepper, which provides a very mild hint of spice.
What size baking dish should I use?
An 11 x 7 x 0.5 inch baking dish that has been lightly greased is ideal.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
While the recipe specifies lemon juice for a classic zesty flavor, lime could be used as a citrus alternative.
How do I know the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is ready when it reaches an opaque color and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
What can I serve as a side dish?
This creamy fish pairs perfectly with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables.
Should the baking dish be covered during the process?
No, the fish should be baked uncovered for both the initial bake and the final melting stage.
How much mayonnaise is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of mayonnaise for the creamy topping.
How much sour cream is needed?
You will need 1/4 cup of sour cream to create the sauce.
What kind of cheese is recommended for the topping?
Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for its flavor and melting properties.
How should the green onions be prepared?
The green onions should be thinly sliced before being mixed into the topping.
What inspired this recipe?
This version was inspired by a classic recipe found in the 'Reflections of the West' cookbook.
Is this dish suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, with a total baking time under 20 minutes, it is an excellent choice for a fast and easy meal.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe produces four equal portions from two large fish fillets.
Do I need to season the fish with salt and pepper?
Yes, sprinkle both sides of the fish with salt and pepper to taste before the initial bake.
Is the sauce stirred until smooth?
Yes, you should stir the sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings until the mixture is completely smooth.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is highlighted as a great option for meal prep.
What is the total amount of lemon juice used?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon for the fish prep and an additional 1 teaspoon for the sauce.
Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before beginning the recipe.
Is the baking dish greased?
Yes, the 11 x 7 x 0.5 inch baking dish should be lightly greased to prevent sticking.
How much ground red pepper is used?
The recipe calls for 1/8 teaspoon of ground red pepper.
How much cheddar cheese is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
When should the dish be served?
It should be served immediately after removing it from the oven to enjoy the warm, creamy texture.