Looking to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare? Look no further than this Herb Flounder with Lemon Vinaigrette! In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a stunning meal that will impress your family and friends alike. With its flaky, tender fish and a bright, zesty vinaigrette, this American classic is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover how simple gourmet cooking can be!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 flounder fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (e.g., dill, parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by patting the flounder fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear.
- In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and olive oil to create the vinaigrette. Finely chop the fresh herbs and set aside.
- Season both sides of the flounder fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure even coating for balanced flavor.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat the pan evenly.
- Carefully place the seasoned flounder fillets into the hot skillet, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and edges begin to turn opaque.
- Gently flip the fillets using a thin spatula and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the second side, or until fish is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove fillets from the skillet and transfer to serving plates. Immediately drizzle with prepared lemon vinaigrette.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs over the fish, allowing their aromatic flavors to enhance the delicate flounder.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally accompanied by a light salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips
- Dry the Fish: Before cooking, pat the flounder fillets dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear and preventing the fish from steaming in the pan.
- Customize the Vinaigrette: Feel free to experiment with the vinaigrette by adding a pinch of garlic or a splash of honey for a sweet twist. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can also be substituted based on your preference.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making more than two servings, cook the fillets in batches. Overcrowding the skillet can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
- Perfect Flipping Technique: Use a thin spatula to gently flip the fillets. This helps maintain the integrity of the fish and ensures it stays intact.
- Check for Doneness: Flounder is done when it flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture.
- Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 226kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
