Lemon Garlic Broiled Flounder
If you’re looking for delicious seafood recipes, consider trying pan-seared snapper or pistachio-crusted sea bass. A key to successful fish cooking is knowing when it’s done, which can be challenging since most people don’t prepare fish daily.
Many people are working to reduce their meat intake without eliminating it entirely, as exploring various protein options is important. After dedicating time to learning about cooking fish, Lemon Garlic broiled flounder has emerged as a standout dish. With the right techniques, anyone can enjoy tasty, healthy fish meals without the fear of failure.
Ingredients For Lemon Garlic Broiled Flounder
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 flounder filets
- 1 lemon, sliced thinly
- 4 cloves of garlic, either pressed or grated
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 4 teaspoons of olive oil
When it comes to substitutions, there aren’t many needed since this dish relies on just a few fresh ingredients for its flavor. It’s best to use fresh seafood rather than frozen, as fresh fish is typically easier to work with, especially for beginners. If you can’t find flounder, you can also use similar fish like halibut or striped bass for a great result.
Making Lemon Garlic Broiled Flounder: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
Start by purchasing 4 flounder filets. You can choose whether you want them with or without skin; both options work well. Fresh flounder is recommended, but you can also use similar fish like halibut or striped bass.
Step 2: Prepare the Flounder
Rinse the flounder filets under cold water and then pat them dry with a paper towel. Place the filets on a baking pan and drizzle olive oil over each piece, ensuring they are coated evenly. Grate the garlic directly onto the fish and rub it in thoroughly on both sides. If you prefer, you can press the garlic instead.
Step 3: Season the Fish
Generously season both sides of the filets with salt and pepper. Then, layer thin slices of lemon on top of each filet. This adds a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the fish beautifully.
Step 4: Preheat the Broiler
Set your oven to broil and allow it to preheat for about 8 minutes. It’s essential to let the broiler heat up properly, even if your oven doesn’t signal when it’s ready, so it’s very hot when you place the fish inside.
Step 5: Broil the Flounder
Once the oven is preheated, place the baking pan with the flounder inside. Broil for 4-5 minutes, keeping an eye on the fish. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of the smallest filet at the 4-minute mark. You want each filet to reach 145°F for optimal doneness. Pull the filets out as they reach this temperature to ensure they remain moist.
Step 6: Serve and Store
Serve the broiled flounder over a bed of arugula drizzled with olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Discard the lemon slices used for cooking and add more fresh lemon if desired. This dish pairs well with white jasmine rice and an arugula salad. If you have leftovers, the flounder can be reheated in the microwave in 20-second increments or pan-fried in butter to regain some crispness. Properly cooked fish can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQS
What type of fish can I use instead of flounder?
You can substitute flounder with other white fish such as halibut, striped bass, sole, or tilapia. These alternatives offer similar textures and flavors, making them suitable for this recipe.
Do I have to use fresh fish?
While fresh fish is recommended for the best flavor and texture, if fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen flounder. Just ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking, as excess moisture can affect the cooking process.
How can I tell if the fish is cooked properly?
The safest way to check for doneness is by using an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature of the fish should reach 145°F. Additionally, the fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when it’s fully cooked.
Can I prepare the flounder in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the flounder by seasoning and adding the lemon slices beforehand. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before broiling. This allows the flavors to meld, making the dish even tastier.
How should I store leftovers?
Cooked flounder can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing the container to maintain freshness.
What’s the best way to reheat flounder?
The best way to reheat flounder is either in the microwave or by pan-frying. For the microwave, heat in 20-second increments until warmed through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If pan-frying, use a little butter to add flavor and crispness, cooking until heated through.
Can I use other herbs or spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the lemon and garlic combination is delicious, feel free to experiment with other herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Is it necessary to remove the skin from the flounder?
It’s not necessary to remove the skin; in fact, it can add flavor and nutrients. If you prefer skinless filets, that’s perfectly fine too. Just ensure that the skin is scaled properly if you leave it on.
What sides pair well with Lemon Garlic Broiled Flounder?
This dish pairs nicely with a variety of sides, including white jasmine rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a fresh arugula salad. Roasted potatoes or a light pasta dish can also complement the flavors well.
Can I make this recipe without a broiler?
If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the flounder in the oven at a high temperature (around 425°F) for about 12-15 minutes. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the filets.