Discovering the delicate flavors of lemon sole can elevate your home cooking to gourmet levels. This recipe for Baked Lemon Sole Fillet with Zesty Lemon brings out the best in this mild yet flavorful fish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish combines simplicity with zestiness to create a truly delightful seafood experience.
Ingredients
- 4 lemon sole fillets, about 6 ounces each
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, or ½ teaspoon dried
- 1 tablespoon capers (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Butter or lemon slices for serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Rinse the sole fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Place the sole fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
Baking
- Using a brush or spoon, spread the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the top of each fillet.
- If using, sprinkle capers over the fillets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
Serving
- Transfer the baked sole fillets to serving plates.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, and if desired, serve with a dollop of butter or lemon slices.
- Accompany with your choice of sides like steamed asparagus, roasted potatoes, or a light salad.
🍋 Note: The freshness of the lemon and thyme significantly impacts the dish's flavor profile. Opt for organic lemons if possible for the best zest taste.
To summarize, this baked lemon sole recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. The combination of zesty lemon with the mild fish elevates it from everyday fare to something you’d proudly serve to dinner guests or enjoy in a quiet, intimate setting. With minimal preparation and a quick bake, you can enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal that celebrates the delicate taste of lemon sole.
Can I use frozen lemon sole fillets for this recipe?
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Yes, you can use frozen fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What other herbs can I add to enhance the flavor?
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You could try dill, basil, or even a hint of rosemary to complement the lemon flavors.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
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Absolutely, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your sides are gluten-free as well.
