Imagine a dish so delectable, it transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience in just 20 minutes! This Lemon Parmesan Orange Roughy is not just a recipe; it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the delicate, buttery texture of orange roughy with the bright zestiness of lemon and the rich, savory notes of Parmesan cheese. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this Italian-inspired seafood delight promises to elevate your cooking game and impress even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 fillets orange roughy
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the orange roughy fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and crisp texture.
- Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Pour olive oil into a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan and heat over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the seasoned fillets into the hot skillet, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes on the first side until a golden-brown crust forms.
- Gently flip the fillets using a thin spatula, being careful not to break the delicate fish.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice evenly over the fillets while they cook on the second side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each fillet during the last minute of cooking, allowing the cheese to melt and create a crispy, golden crust.
- Remove fillets from the skillet when they are opaque and flake easily with a fork, typically reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Transfer the fillets to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and fresh flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad to complement the dish.
Tips
- Pat the fish completely dry before cooking to ensure a crispy, golden exterior that locks in moisture.
- Use a cast-iron or non-stick skillet for the most even heat distribution and perfect searing.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - cook fillets in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that beautiful golden crust.
- Watch the cooking time carefully; orange roughy is a delicate fish that can quickly become dry if overcooked.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor profile.
- The lemon juice not only adds flavor but helps tenderize the fish during cooking.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the crispy cheese crust and optimal texture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a small amount of minced garlic or herbs to the Parmesan coating.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg
