Let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: the best garlic parmesan flounder recipe! This is one of those meals that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to whip up on a weeknight. I remember the first time I made this; the aroma of garlic wafting through my kitchen made my mouth water! Flounder is such a light and delicate fish, and when you pair it with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan, it’s like a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings or a cozy dinner at home. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for the Best Garlic Parmesan Flounder Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 flounder fillets: Fresh or thawed, these delicate fillets are the star of the show.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This adds richness and helps the garlic flavor penetrate the fish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: I love using fresh garlic for its bold flavor, but feel free to adjust this based on your taste!
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: The cheesy goodness is what really makes this dish irresistible. Trust me, don’t skimp on this!
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens everything up and balances the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that really enhance the flavors of the fish.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
How to Prepare the Best Garlic Parmesan Flounder
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delightful dish! It’s really straightforward, so you’ll be enjoying your garlic parmesan flounder in no time.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because it ensures that your flounder cooks evenly and gets that lovely, golden crust on top. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. You want it to be well combined, creating a flavorful mixture that’ll infuse the fish with deliciousness. Feel free to adjust the garlic if you’re feeling adventurous or if you prefer a milder flavor!
Step 3: Arrange the Flounder
Next, take your flounder fillets and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This not only helps with cleanup but also keeps the fish from sticking. Lay them out nice and flat, giving them some space to breathe.
Step 4: Apply the Garlic Mixture
Now it’s time to brush that beautiful garlic mixture evenly over the fillets. Make sure each piece is covered—this is where all that flavor comes from! I like to use a pastry brush for this, but you can also use the back of a spoon if that’s what you have on hand.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese generously over the top of each fillet. This cheesy layer is what truly makes this dish sing! Just make sure to distribute it evenly so every bite is packed with that cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Bake the Flounder
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks beautifully golden. Keep an eye on it, as cooking times can vary slightly based on your oven!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, it’s time to add a touch of freshness! Garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. I love serving this flounder with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
To make sure your garlic parmesan flounder turns out perfectly every time, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste—more garlic means more flavor! If you prefer a milder taste, start with just two cloves and build from there.
When it comes to cooking times, keep a close eye on your fish; ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overcooking. Flounder cooks quickly, so check it at the 15-minute mark to see if it’s ready. Serve it alongside a refreshing salad or some steamed veggies for a light meal that feels fancy!
And remember, this dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to two days. Just gently reheat in the oven for the best flavor!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Hey there! Just a quick note about the nutritional information for this garlic parmesan flounder recipe. Keep in mind that nutrition can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so the values provided are just estimates. For instance, typical values like calories, fat, protein, and carbs are calculated per serving and may not reflect your exact dish. Always feel free to check your own ingredient labels for the most accurate information!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a rich, savory taste that elevates the delicate flounder to new heights—trust me, it’s a flavor that will have you coming back for more!
- Healthy Option: Flounder is a lean fish packed with protein and low in fat, making this dish not only tasty but also a nutritious choice for you and your family.
- Easy Cleanup: With just a baking sheet and a mixing bowl, cleanup is a breeze! The parchment paper helps keep your baking sheet clean, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.
FAQ About the Best Garlic Parmesan Flounder Recipe
Can I use frozen flounder?
Absolutely! You can use frozen flounder for this recipe, and it works great. Just be sure to thaw the fillets completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using the quick-thaw method by sealing them in a plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes. If you’re using frozen fillets, you might need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked through and flaky!
What to serve with garlic parmesan flounder?
This garlic parmesan flounder pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! I love serving it alongside roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, which complement the flavors perfectly. A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette also makes a refreshing addition. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, try it with a side of quinoa or garlic mashed potatoes—delicious! You can’t go wrong with these combinations!
How to store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the flounder in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This way, you’ll keep that lovely texture without drying it out. Just make sure not to microwave it, as that can make the fish rubbery. Enjoy your tasty second round!
Equipment Needed
Before you get started on this delicious garlic parmesan flounder, let’s make sure you have all the right tools at hand! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper is perfect for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Small bowl: For mixing your garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper together.
- Pastry brush: This is great for brushing the garlic mixture onto the flounder evenly. If you don’t have one, the back of a spoon works just fine!
- Fork: To check the doneness of the fish—just gently flake it to see if it’s cooked through.
- Measuring spoons: These will help you get the right amounts of olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings.
- Chopping board and knife: For mincing your garlic and chopping the fresh parsley for garnish.
Having these tools ready will streamline the cooking process and make your time in the kitchen even more enjoyable. Happy cooking!
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Best Garlic Parmesan Flounder Recipe for a Flavorful Feast
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and delicious garlic parmesan flounder recipe that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 4 flounder fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Place the flounder fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the garlic mixture evenly over the fillets.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top of each fillet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust garlic quantity according to your taste.
- Serve with a side of vegetables or salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: best garlic parmesan flounder recipe
