Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce

Baked fish with lemon cream sauce is a delightful dish that combines the delicate flavors of fresh fish with a rich, tangy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a simple weeknight meal, offering a balance of elegance and ease. The creamy lemon sauce adds a luxurious touch, enhancing the natural taste of the fish. Follow this recipe to create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your home.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

• 4 fillets of white fish (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Lemon Cream Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Fish

Place the fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, ensuring they are well-coated. Season both sides of the fish with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step 3: Bake the Fish

Bake the fish in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.

Step 4: Prepare the Lemon Cream Sauce

While the fish is baking, prepare the lemon cream sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until it begins to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Finish the Sauce

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. The sauce should be creamy and slightly thickened.

Step 7: Serve

Once the fish is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Plate the fish fillets and generously spoon the lemon cream sauce over each fillet. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Tips for the Best Baked Fish with Lemon Cream Sauce

• Choose Fresh Fish: Use fresh, high-quality fish fillets for the best flavor and texture. Fresh fish should have a mild aroma and firm flesh.
• Don't Overcook: Keep an eye on the fish while it bakes. Overcooked fish can become dry and lose its delicate flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the sauce to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
• Pairing Suggestions: Serve this dish with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or buttery mashed potatoes to complete your meal.

Conclusion

Baked fish with lemon cream sauce is a sophisticated yet simple dish that will impress your family and guests. The creamy, tangy sauce perfectly complements the tender, flavorful fish, making it a memorable meal. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Enjoy your cooking, and happy dining!

---

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the recipe or need additional tips. Happy cooking!