Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder is a delightful seafood dish that brings together the bright zing of lemon and the comforting warmth of herbs, creating a meal that is both simple to prepare and delicious. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Flounder, a mild and flaky fish, pairs wonderfully with these bright flavors and cooks swiftly, making it an excellent choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
Why Make This Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder
Making Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder is not just easy, it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. The fresh, zesty notes of lemon, combined with fragrant herbs and spices, bring life to the tender fillets of flounder. This dish stands out as both nutritious and satisfying, providing a lean source of protein while being low in carbohydrates and fat. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it a great option for any occasion.
How to Make Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder
Ingredients:
- 4 Flounder fillets (5-ounce)
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to a comfortable 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). While the oven warms up, gently pat your flounder fillets completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice texture and ensuring that the seasoning adheres well to the fish. Arrange the fillets in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet or in a baking dish, making sure they don’t overlap.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice until well combined. This flavorful mixture will enhance the flounder’s taste and keep it moist during baking. Use a brush to lightly coat both sides of each flounder fillet with this delicious blend.
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Step 3: Seasoning
In another small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. This savory seasoning blend adds depth to the dish. Sprinkle it generously over both sides of the prepared fish, ensuring even coverage for a tasty finish.
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Step 4: Baking
Pop the seasoned flounder into the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. The fish is perfectly cooked when it easily flakes apart with a fork, or when its internal temperature reaches a tender 140 degrees F (60 degrees C). Keep an eye on it around the 10-minute mark, as cooking times can vary based on fillet thickness.
How to Serve Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder
Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder shines on its own but can also be paired beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice, with roasted vegetables, or alongside a fresh arugula salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. For a special touch, garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley before serving.
How to Store Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the flounder on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
Expert Tips for Perfect Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder
- Freshness Matters: Always opt for fresh or properly frozen flounder for the best taste and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices like dill, thyme, or oregano to suit your taste.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close watch on the fish in the oven; flounder cooks quickly and can dry out if overdone.
- Add a Crunch: For a bit of texture, consider topping the fish with crushed toasted breadcrumbs mixed with some herbs before baking.
Delicious Variations
- Lemon-Dill Flounder: Replace smoked paprika with fresh or dried dill for a delightful variation.
- Parmesan Crusted Flounder: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy flair.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other mild, flaky fish like sole, tilapia, or haddock. -
What can I serve with baked flounder?
Pair it with steamed green beans, quinoa, or a light Mediterranean salad for a well-rounded meal. -
Can I freeze cooked flounder?
Yes, you can freeze cooked flounder. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It should keep for about 2 months. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can prep the fish and seasoning in advance and bake it just before serving. -
What’s the best way to know when the fish is done?
The fish should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 140 degrees F (60 degrees C).
Conclusion
Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the freshness of the ocean right to your table. With its quick prep time and tantalizing flavors, this recipe is perfect for any night of the week. You’ll find that the combination of simple ingredients results in a dish that feels luxurious without the fuss. Give it a try, and enjoy a meal that will impress both family and friends alike!
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Effortless Lemon-Herb Baked Flounder
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A delightful seafood dish combining lemon and herbs for a quick, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 4 Flounder fillets (5-ounce)
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Gently pat the flounder fillets dry with paper towels and arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, and lemon juice. Lightly coat both sides of each flounder fillet with this mixture.
- In another bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning over both sides of the fish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
