Baked Dorado Fish with Seasonal Vegetables

Baked Dorado Fish with Seasonal Vegetables is a delightful and nutritious dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cooking. Dorado, also known as mahi-mahi or sea bream, is a tender and flavorful fish that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, herbs, and zesty lemon. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it not only looks stunning but also offers a healthy balance of protein and nutrients. With a preparation time of around 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, this recipe is both quick and easy to make, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • Dorado Fish: 4 pieces
  • Lemon: 1 piece (juiced and zested)
  • Seasoning for Fish: 1 teaspoon (your choice of seasoning mix)
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Zucchini: 1 piece (sliced)
  • Onions: 3 pieces (sliced)
  • Parsley: 50g (chopped)
  • Butter: 20g
  • Sweet Pepper: 1 piece (sliced)
  • Tomatoes: 2 pieces (sliced)
  • Granular Mustard: 1 teaspoon
  • Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
  • Salt: to taste
  • Pepper: to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

  1. Clean and Rinse: Rinse the dorado fish under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the Fish: In a small bowl, mix the seasoning for fish with the juice of half the lemon, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the fish, including the cavity. Let the fish marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Slice the Vegetables: Slice the zucchini, onions, and sweet pepper into thin strips. Slice the tomatoes as well.
  2. Sauté the Onions: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: In a large baking dish, layer the sautéed onions at the bottom. Arrange the zucchini, sweet pepper, and tomato slices on top.
  3. Add the Fish: Place the seasoned dorado fish on top of the vegetables in the baking dish.
  4. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the remaining lemon juice, olive oil, granular mustard, soy sauce, and chopped parsley. Pour this mixture over the fish and vegetables, making sure to drizzle some into the cavity of the fish as well. Dot with butter.

Step 4: Bake the Fish

  1. Cover the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  2. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest.
  2. Plate: Serve the dorado fish hot, accompanied by the roasted vegetables, and enjoy!

Cooking Tips

  • Freshness: Use the freshest dorado fish you can find for the best flavor and texture.
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as asparagus, eggplant, or carrots based on your preference or seasonal availability.
  • Marinade: For a deeper flavor, let the fish marinate for longer, up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  • Oven Monitoring: Keep an eye on the fish while baking, as cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fish.

Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy the dish fresh, you can freeze the baked fish and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 3g

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen dorado fish? Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and baking.
  2. What can I serve with this dish? This dish pairs beautifully with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  3. Can I make this dish on the grill? Absolutely! This recipe can easily be adapted for the grill. Just wrap the fish and vegetables in foil and grill over medium heat until cooked through.
  4. How do I know when the fish is done? The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

Baked Dorado Fish with Seasonal Vegetables is a healthy and flavorful dish that showcases the best of fresh ingredients. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, it makes for a wonderful centerpiece for any meal. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends, and celebrate the joy of wholesome cooking!