What is Monkfish?
Monkfish, also known as the “poor man’s lobster,” is a versatile and flavorsome fish that is widely appreciated by seafood lovers. Its firm and meaty texture resembles that of lobster, making it a perfect substitute for this luxurious crustacean.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound monkfish fillets
- 8 ounces pasta (linguine or spaghetti work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup dry white wine
- 1 cup fish or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Preparing the Monkfish
Begin by rinsing the monkfish fillets under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Remove any excess fat or skin and season the fish generously with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the other components of the dish.
Step 2: Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sautéing the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and heat it until shimmering. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion, sautéing until they turn fragrant and slightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can develop a bitter taste.
Step 4: Adding the Monkfish
Add the seasoned monkfish fillets to the skillet and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the fish from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, covering it with foil to keep it warm.
Step 5: Creating the Sauce
With the skillet still on medium heat, deglaze it with the dry white wine, scraping off any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the wine to reduce by half before adding the halved cherry tomatoes and fish or vegetable broth. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Combining the Components
Return the monkfish fillets to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta, gently tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Cut the butter into small cubes and sprinkle it over the pasta, letting it melt and contribute to the richness of the dish.
Step 7: Garnishing and Serving
Finally, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the pasta dish, adding a vibrant touch of color and additional flavor. Serve this delicious monkfish pasta hot, accompanied by a crusty baguette and a crisp glass of white wine.
Are you ready to elevate your cooking skills and indulge in a heavenly seafood experience? Try this recipe for monkfish with pasta, and prepare to receive compliments from your delighted dinner guests. Bon appétit!