This Italian Style Basa Fillet with Lemon and Olives is a light yet flavorful dish that captures the sunny essence of Mediterranean cooking. Tender basa fillets are baked with lemon slices, olives, garlic, and herbs, creating a fragrant sauce that perfectly complements the delicate fish. It’s quick to prepare, elegant enough for dinner guests, and healthy enough for a weeknight meal.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
4 basa fillets (about 150g each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ cup pitted green and black olives (mixed)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
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Prepare the fillets: Pat the basa fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt and black pepper, then place them in the prepared baking dish.
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Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Drizzle this mixture over the fish.
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Add lemon and olives: Arrange the lemon slices over the fillets and scatter the olives around the fish. Spoon some of the seasoned oil over the top to coat everything evenly.
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Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
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Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot with a drizzle of pan juices.
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 280
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 430mg
Tips:
For extra flavor, add a splash of dry white wine before baking.
You can use cod, tilapia, or haddock instead of basa if preferred.
Serve this dish with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a light pasta tossed in olive oil.
For a rustic touch, add halved cherry tomatoes to the baking dish before it goes into the oven.
