Mediterranean Fish Marinade
Mediterranean Fish Marinade
This Mediterranean-inspired marinade is perfect for enhancing the flavors of fish, particularly light, flaky varieties like cod, tilapia, or halibut. It's packed with fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and olive oil, creating a flavorful, aromatic base that complements the delicate texture of fish.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons capers (optional, for a briny kick)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, thyme, parsley, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the lemon zest and capers (if using), and mix well.
-
Marinate the Fish:
- Place your fish fillets (about 4 portions, or up to 1 lb) in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the fish, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Cover the dish or seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. You can marinate for up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acidity of the lemon and vinegar can begin to break down the fish.
-
Cook the Fish:
- After marinating, remove the fish from the marinade (discard the used marinade).
- Grill, bake, or pan-sear the fish, depending on your preference. For grilling, cook the fish over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.
- For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the fish for 10-12 minutes, depending on thickness.
-
Serve:
- Once cooked, garnish the fish with additional fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, if desired. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh Mediterranean salad, or couscous for a complete meal.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can marinate fish for a few hours, but avoid marinating for too long to prevent the texture from becoming mushy.
- This marinade also works well with shrimp, scallops, or grilled vegetables for a Mediterranean feast.
This Mediterranean Fish Marinade brings vibrant, tangy flavors to your seafood dishes, enhancing the fish without overpowering it. Enjoy!
Comments
Post a Comment