Save A playful, healthy dish designed in the shape of a fish, featuring fresh vegetables and tender white fish fillet. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant starter.
This recipe reminds me of the joy of crafting food art with my family, making mealtime both fun and nutritious.
Ingredients
- Fish: 2 small white fish fillets (e.g., cod or sole, ~120 g each), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetables: 1 small carrot, 1 small zucchini, 1/2 red bell pepper, 1/2 yellow bell pepper, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Decoration: 4 black olives (for eyes and scales), 2 slices cucumber (for fish mouth and tail)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Lay the fish fillets flat and use a sharp knife to trim one end into a point (the fish head) and cut small notches along the sides for fins.
- Step 3:
- Brush the fillets with olive oil, sprinkle with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Place them on the prepared tray.
- Step 4:
- Use thin slices of carrot, zucchini, and bell peppers to create colorful scales on top of the fillets. Reserve a few slices for the tail and fins.
- Step 5:
- Use an olive slice for the eye and a cucumber slice for the mouth. Arrange remaining vegetables to form the tail and fins.
- Step 6:
- Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender but vibrant.
- Step 7:
- Carefully transfer to plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Save This meal has brought smiles to my family dining table, turning simple lunches into delightful moments.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, Baking tray, Parchment paper, Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish. May contain traces of allergens depending on fish source. Double-check ingredient labels if unsure.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180. Total Fat: 7 g. Carbohydrates: 8 g. Protein: 22 g.
Save This elegant yet simple recipe enhances any meal with a touch of creativity and wholesome ingredients.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of fish works best for this dish?
Small white fish fillets like cod or sole are ideal for shaping and baking due to their tender texture.
- → How do I create the fish shape with the fillets?
Trim one end of each fillet into a point to form the head and make small notches along the sides to resemble fins.
- → What vegetables are used to decorate the fish?
Thin slices of carrot, zucchini, and red and yellow bell peppers create the colorful scales while olives and cucumber slices add eyes and tail details.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven to maintain the vibrant vegetable colors and tender fish texture.
- → Are there recommended accompaniments?
A drizzle of herbed yogurt or lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors and adds a fresh finish.
- → Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Tofu cut in a similar shape can replace fish for a vegetarian-friendly version.