Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce: A Simple Yet Elegant Dish

Introduction:

Elevate your dinner with this delicious Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce recipe. This dish is perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. It combines tender, flaky fish with a luscious lemon cream sauce that’s both rich and tangy. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

Ingredients:

• 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or halibut)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preparing the Fish:

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

1. Season the Fish:

• Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

1. Arrange in Baking Dish:

• Place the fish fillets in a baking dish in a single layer.

Making the Lemon Cream Sauce:

4. Heat Olive Oil and Butter:

• In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until the butter is melted.

4. Sauté Garlic:

• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

4. Add Liquid Ingredients:

• Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and fresh lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Incorporate Dijon Mustard and Capers:

• Whisk in the Dijon mustard and add the capers. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it slightly thickens.

4. Season the Sauce:

• Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Baking the Fish:

9. Pour Sauce Over Fish:

• Pour the lemon cream sauce evenly over the fish fillets in the baking dish.

9. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Finishing Touches:

11. Garnish:
    • Sprinkle the baked fish with freshly chopped parsley and garnish with lemon slices.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Vegetables: Serve this baked fish with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or carrots for a balanced meal.
• Over Rice or Pasta: Place the fish on a bed of rice or al dente pasta to soak up the delicious lemon cream sauce.
• With Salad: Pair with a fresh side salad for a light and refreshing complement.

Tips for Perfect Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce:

• Use Fresh Fish: Fresh fish fillets will yield the best flavor and texture for this dish.
• Don’t Overcook: Be mindful not to overcook the fish. It should be just cooked through and flaky.
• Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion:

This Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce is a delightful and easy recipe that brings gourmet flavors to your kitchen without the fuss. The creamy, tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the tender fish, creating a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home with minimal effort and maximum flavor!