Baked Monkfish with Spinach and Cheese

Introduction

Baked Monkfish with Spinach and Cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make dish. This recipe combines the freshness of spinach with the flavour of monkfish and the creaminess of cheese to create a dish that is sure to please. The combination of flavours makes a savoury and satisfying meal that will surely be a hit with your family and friends. This dish is also a great way to get your daily dose of healthy omega-3 fatty acids. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish will surely become a favourite in your household.

Ease of preparation

This recipe is surprisingly simple and easy to make. All you need to do is combine the ingredients, season them, and bake them in the oven. The preparation time is minimal, the cooking time is long enough to ensure the monkfish is cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal as it can be made in under an hour.

Nutritional information

This dish is a great source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins and minerals. One serving of this dish contains approximately 188 calories, 15 grams of fat, 8 grams of protein, and 5 grams of carbohydrates. 

Ingredients

-1 lb monkfish fillet

-2 tablespoons olive oil

-1 teaspoon garlic powder

-1 teaspoon paprika

-1/2 teaspoon salt

-1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

-4 cups fresh spinach

-1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

-1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

-1/4 cup breadcrumbs

-1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

-1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

-2 tablespoons butter, melted

-Lemon wedges, for garnish (optional)

Preparation method

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the monkfish fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, and basil. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

After the monkfish has cooked for 15 minutes, please remove it from the oven and top it with the spinach and cheese mixture. Drizzle with the melted butter and return to the range. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and serve with lemon wedges, if desired. Enjoy!

Cooking tips

-For a crispy topping, broil the monkfish in the oven for the last few minutes of cooking.

-If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach that has been thawed and drained.

-For an extra cheesy topping, add more mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

-You can use dried herbs instead if you don’t have fresh herbs.

Flavour/Taste

This dish has a savoury, slightly salty flavour. The monkfish is tender and juicy, while the spinach and cheese add a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness. The herbs add a bright, herbal flavour that complements the other ingredients.

Best dishes paired with

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Some great options include roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a light pasta dish. It also pairs well with a glass of white or rosé wine.

Origin of dish and history

Baked Monkfish with Spinach and Cheese is a classic Italian dish. It is believed to have originated in the coastal regions of Italy, where monkfish is a popular seafood. This dish is a great example of Italian cuisine, combining fresh ingredients and bold flavours.

Popular alternatives

If you don’t have monkfish, you can use any firm white fish for this dish. Cod, halibut, and tilapia are all great substitutes. You can substitute the spinach for any other leafy green, such as kale or Swiss chard.