Imagine a dish so tantalizing that it transforms an ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience. This Lemon Basil Aioli Flounder with Bread Crumbs is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines the delicate texture of flounder with a zesty, herbaceous aioli and a perfectly crispy bread crumb coating. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or someone looking to impress dinner guests, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 flounder fillets
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, chopped basil, salt, and pepper to create the aioli sauce. Whisk until ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Pat the flounder fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps ensure a crispy bread crumb coating.
- Place bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Season bread crumbs with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Generously brush each flounder fillet with the prepared lemon basil aioli, ensuring complete coverage on both sides.
- Carefully dredge each aioli-coated fillet in the seasoned bread crumbs, pressing gently to help crumbs adhere evenly to the fish.
- Arrange breaded flounder fillets on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork and bread crumbs are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a lemon wedge if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, accompanied by a side salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Pat the fish completely dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Use fresh basil for the most vibrant flavor - dried herbs won't provide the same brightness.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; give each fillet space to ensure even browning.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or lemon zest to your bread crumbs.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for perfect doneness.
- Let the fish rest for a few minutes after baking to help retain its moisture.
- If you prefer a deeper golden crust, you can briefly broil the fillets for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 70mg
