The savory world of seafood and the fragrant allure of basil come together in a delightful harmony in fish dishes. Basil, with its distinct aroma and flavor, can elevate even the simplest of recipes, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. This post dives deep into 5 delicious fish recipes using basil, each one crafted to bring out the best in fresh, flavorful fish through the unique taste of basil.
Grilled Sea Bass with Basil Butter
Grilling fish is a delicate art, and when you top it with a basil compound butter, you’re in for a treat. Here’s how you can enjoy this delicious dish:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the sea bass fillets with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter with finely chopped fresh basil, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
- Grill the fish for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Top each fillet with a generous spoonful of basil butter right after grilling.
🍴 Note: This recipe can also be adapted for broiling in the oven. Just place the fish on a baking sheet, add the basil butter towards the end of the cooking time.
Basil-Crusted Haddock
If you’re looking for a crunchy yet fresh dish, the basil-crusted haddock will surprise your palate with its harmonious blend of textures and flavors:
- Combine fresh breadcrumbs with minced garlic, chopped basil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Season haddock fillets with salt, pepper, and a touch of lemon juice.
- Press the crumb mixture onto one side of each fillet, creating a solid crust.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden.
Basil Lemon Fish Stew
This hearty fish stew combines the robust flavors of the ocean with the fresh zing of basil:
- Sauté onions, garlic, and diced tomatoes in olive oil.
- Add fish stock, white wine, lemon zest, and chunks of your favorite white fish.
- Simmer gently until the fish is cooked through.
- Stir in a large handful of fresh basil just before serving.
🌿 Note: If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use dried basil in smaller quantities to achieve a similar taste profile.
Baked Salmon with Tomato and Basil
Salmon is a canvas for flavors, and this recipe lets the simplicity of tomatoes and basil shine:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place salmon fillets in a baking dish, skin side down.
- Top each fillet with slices of fresh tomatoes and a sprinkle of chopped basil.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the salmon is flaky.
Linguine with Shrimp and Basil Pesto
Move over traditional pesto; this version with shrimp and fish-infused pasta is a seafood lover’s delight:
- Cook linguine until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water.
- In a food processor, blend basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to make pesto.
- Sauté shrimp with a bit of garlic until just pink.
- Toss the cooked pasta with pesto, shrimp, and a bit of pasta water to create a sauce.
- Serve with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.
In summary, these recipes are a testament to how basil can enhance the natural flavors of fish, creating dishes that are both elegant and accessible. Whether you prefer the delicate touch of grilled sea bass with basil butter or the hearty richness of a fish stew infused with basil, each recipe offers a unique way to enjoy this herb with seafood.
Can I substitute dried basil for fresh basil in these recipes?
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Yes, you can substitute dried basil for fresh, but use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What type of basil is best for fish recipes?
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Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is commonly used due to its sweet, slightly spicy flavor. However, Thai basil can also work well for a different taste profile.
How can I ensure my fish doesn’t stick to the grill?
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To prevent fish from sticking, oil the grill grates well, preheat the grill, and avoid moving the fish until it naturally releases from the grill. You can also place the fish on a piece of oiled foil or use a fish basket.
