Crispy Parmesan-Basil Crusted Perch
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Crispy Parmesan-Basil Crusted Perch recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. This dish features tender ocean perch fillets coated in a golden-brown crust of fresh basil, zesty paprika, and rich Parmesan cheese. It's both simple to prepare and sophisticated enough to impress your guests. Serve with a side of green vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy the harmony of textures and flavors as the crispy topping complements the flaky fish beneath, making every bite a delightful experience!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dry breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons (none)
Grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons (none)
Fresh basil leaves (or dried basil leaves)
1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon) (chopped)
Paprika
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Pepper
1 dash (none)
Ocean perch fillets
1 lb (cleaned and patted dry)
Margarine
1 tablespoon (melted)
Fresh parsley
1 tablespoon (chopped)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack slightly above the middle.
2
Lightly spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch rectangular baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, paprika, and a dash of pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
4
Brush one side of each perch fillet with melted margarine, then dip the coated side into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
5
Arrange the fish in the prepared baking pan with the coated side facing up.
6
Bake the perch uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the topping turns golden brown.
7
Once cooked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Parmesan-Basil Crusted Perch?
It is a dish featuring tender ocean perch fillets coated in a golden-brown crust of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, and paprika.
What temperature should the oven be preheated to?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
How long does the fish take to bake?
The perch should bake for 15 to 20 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried basil leaves if fresh basil is unavailable.
What size baking pan is recommended?
A 13 x 9 x 2-inch rectangular baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the main ingredients for the crust?
The crust is made from dry breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, and paprika.
Should the fish be covered while baking?
No, the perch should be baked uncovered to allow the topping to become crispy and golden brown.
How do I prepare the perch fillets before coating?
The fillets should be cleaned and patted dry before being brushed with melted margarine.
What is used to make the breadcrumbs stick to the fish?
Melted margarine is brushed onto one side of the fish to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the topping has turned golden brown.
What type of fish is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses 1 lb of ocean perch fillets.
Where should the oven rack be positioned?
The oven rack should be positioned slightly above the middle of the oven.
Should I grease the baking pan?
Yes, you should lightly spray the baking pan with cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking.
What garnish is recommended for this dish?
Sprinkle the cooked fish with fresh chopped parsley for extra color and flavor.
Can I substitute margarine with butter?
While the recipe calls for margarine, melted butter can typically be used as a direct substitute.
How much Parmesan cheese is required?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
How much breadcrumbs are used in the coating?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of dry breadcrumbs.
Is there any spice in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of paprika and a dash of pepper for seasoning.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy seafood recipe featuring baked fish rather than fried.
What sides go well with this perch?
It is suggested to serve the fish with a side of green vegetables or a light salad.
How do I ensure the coating is even?
Press the margarine-coated side of the fish gently into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure an even layer.
What kind of flavor profile does this dish have?
The dish features Mediterranean flavors with fresh basil, Parmesan, and zesty paprika.
Do I coat both sides of the fish?
The instructions suggest coating one side of each fillet and placing it in the pan coated-side up.
Can I use other types of fish for this crust?
While designed for perch, this crispy Parmesan-basil crust would likely work well with other white fish fillets.
What does the paprika add to the recipe?
Paprika adds a zesty flavor and contributes to the golden-brown color of the crust.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is described as simple to prepare while being sophisticated enough for guests.
How much basil is needed if using fresh leaves?
You should use 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil leaves.
What is the texture of the finished fish?
The fish is tender and flaky, complemented by a crispy, golden topping.
Can this be served for special occasions?
Yes, the recipe is noted for being sophisticated enough to impress guests at a dinner or special event.