Ingredients:
- 2 flounder fillets
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
- 4 lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your flounder cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Flounder
Place the flounder fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the fillets, making sure they are evenly coated. Sprinkle minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper over the fillets.
Step 3: Bake the Flounder
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the flounder for approximately 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the flounder is cooked, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the baked flounder hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing of citrus flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables or a side of fluffy rice.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use other types of fish instead of flounder?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe specifically focuses on flounder, you can easily substitute it with other white fish varieties, such as sole, halibut, or cod.
Q: Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
A: Yes, you can! Fresh oregano will add a vibrant and aromatic flavor to your baked flounder. Simply use three times the amount of fresh oregano compared to the dried quantity mentioned in the recipe.
Q: Is this dish suitable for those following a gluten-free diet?
A: Yes, this baked flounder recipe is completely gluten-free as there are no ingredients containing gluten. However, be sure to double-check the labels of any pre-packaged seasonings you use to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to enjoy the baked flounder immediately after cooking for optimal taste and texture, you can prepare the fillets in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply follow the baking instructions as mentioned in the recipe.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the ultimate baked flounder recipe in your arsenal, it’s time to impress your loved ones or indulge in a scrumptious seafood feast on your own. The delicate flavors of flounder, combined with the simplicity of this recipe, make it a delightful choice for any occasion. So, get your apron on and let’s start cooking this flavorsome Platessa al Forno!