Pesto-Crusted Fish Delight
Experience the harmony of flavors with this Pesto-Crusted Fish Delight! This simple yet exquisite recipe showcases flaky tilapia or cod fillets topped with vibrant pesto and juicy tomatoes, all enveloped in melty mozzarella cheese. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight family meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish promises to be a standout. With minimal prep and a quick bake time, you'll have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. Enjoy the taste of gourmet dining right from your kitchen!
4
Servings
300
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Flounder or Cod Fillets
5 fillets (Thawed, if frozen)
Salt
to taste (for seasoning)
Black Pepper
to taste (for seasoning)
Pesto Sauce
1/2 cup (store-bought or homemade)
Petite Diced Tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can (drained)
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1 1/2 cups (for topping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3
Arrange the fish fillets on the foil-lined sheet and generously season with salt and pepper to your liking.
4
Spread the pesto sauce evenly over each fillet, ensuring they are well coated.
5
Top the pesto-covered fish with the drained diced tomatoes, distributing them evenly across all fillets.
6
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top, covering the tomatoes.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
8
Serve warm, perhaps with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information
16.5g
Fat
27g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pesto-Crusted Fish Delight?
Pesto-Crusted Fish Delight is a quick and simple gourmet-style meal featuring flaky fish fillets topped with pesto sauce, diced tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Which fish fillets are best for this recipe?
The recipe specifically suggests using Flounder or Cod fillets, but tilapia is also a great alternative mentioned in the tags.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The fish should be baked in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C).
How long does the fish take to bake?
The baking time is approximately 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, you can use frozen fish, but ensure it is completely thawed before starting the preparation.
What seasonings are required?
The fillets are seasoned simply with salt and black pepper to your liking.
How much pesto sauce should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of pesto sauce to coat five fish fillets.
Do I need to prepare the tomatoes in a specific way?
Yes, you should use one 15-ounce can of petite diced tomatoes and ensure they are well-drained before adding them to the fish.
How much cheese is used in this dish?
The recipe uses 1.5 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese for the topping.
What are the nutritional facts for the calories?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
How much protein is in one serving?
One serving of this pesto-crusted fish provides 27g of protein.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 16.5g of fat.
Is this a quick weeknight meal?
Absolutely, the meal can be prepared and baked in under 30 minutes.
How can I make cleanup easier?
Line your cookie sheet with aluminum foil before arranging the fish to make cleanup effortless.
What are some suggested side dishes?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or a fresh garden salad.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is ready when it reaches an opaque color and flakes easily when tested with a fork.
How many total ingredients are needed?
There are 6 main ingredients: fish fillets, salt, pepper, pesto, diced tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Yes, you can use either store-bought or homemade pesto sauce for this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, its mild flavors and cheesy topping usually make it a hit with kids.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
According to the tags, this is a freezer-friendly recipe, making it great for meal planning.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
While the recipe calls for canned diced tomatoes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes; just ensure they are ripe and seeded to avoid excess moisture.
Can I substitute the mozzarella with another cheese?
While mozzarella is recommended for its melting properties, you could try parmesan or a mild white cheddar as substitutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the label of your pesto sauce to ensure it doesn't contain hidden gluten.
Is this a low-carb dish?
Yes, with fish, cheese, and tomatoes as the main components, it is naturally low in carbohydrates.
What is the total preparation and cook time?
The total time is under 30 minutes, including prep and 12-15 minutes of baking.
Do I need any special equipment?
You only need a standard oven, a cookie sheet, and some aluminum foil.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy due to the high protein content and the use of fish and vegetables.
Can I store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It offers a savory and herbaceous flavor from the basil-rich pesto, balanced by the acidity of the tomatoes and the creaminess of the mozzarella.