Delicious Fish Florentine
Fish Florentine Recipe
Fish Florentine is a delightful dish that combines the delicate flavors of white fish with rich, creamy spinach and vibrant red bell peppers. This recipe is not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making it a fantastic option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Expect a colorful plate that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate!
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to try Fish Florentine. First, it’s a healthy dish packed with nutrients from the fish and spinach. The combination of creamy textures and savory flavors creates a meal that is indulgent yet light. Additionally, it’s quick to make; in about 30 minutes, you can have a gourmet dinner on the table, impressing friends and family alike. Furthermore, this versatile dish can easily accommodate various dietary preferences and ingredient substitutions.
How to Make Fish Florentine
Follow these simple steps to prepare a delicious Fish Florentine that will leave everyone wanting more!
Ingredients
- 4 pieces (5 oz each) skinless white firm fish fillet (grouper, flounder, bass, or halibut)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 9 ounces fresh baby spinach (2 bags)
- 2 ounces 1/3 less fat cream cheese (recommended: Philadelphia)
- ¼ cup half & half cream
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
Directions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine ½ tablespoon of olive oil and ½ tablespoon of butter.
- Add the chopped red bell pepper and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the spinach, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the spinach wilts down.
- Add the cream cheese, half & half, and Parmesan cheese. Blend well until the cream cheese melts and the mixture resembles creamed spinach.
- In a separate skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Season the fish fillets on both sides with salt and pepper. Place them on the hot pan.
- Cook the fish for 6 minutes on the first side, then carefully flip them over and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the fish is cooked through and nicely browned.
- On each plate, divide the spinach mixture and place a piece of fish on top.
How to Serve Fish Florentine
For an elegant presentation, serve Fish Florentine on a large plate or a beautiful shallow bowl. You can garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Serve with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
How to Store Fish Florentine
To keep the Fish Florentine fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 2 days. When reheating, use a microwave or a stove on low heat to maintain the creaminess of the dish.
Tips to Make Fish Florentine
- Be sure not to overcook the fish; it should flake easily with a fork when done.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini if you want to include more flavors and textures.
- If you like a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture for some heat.
Variations
- Substitute the fish for salmon or tilapia if you prefer different flavors or what’s available.
- For a vegan version, you could use tofu or tempeh instead of fish and vegan cream cheese.
- Try using different greens, such as kale or Swiss chard, in place of spinach for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen fish fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
2. What can I serve with Fish Florentine?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple pasta dish for a well-balanced meal.
3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make Fish Florentine dairy-free, substitute cream cheese and half & half with cashew cream or a dairy-free creamy substitute of your choice.
Enjoy preparing and tasting this delicious Fish Florentine recipe that brings together the warmth of home-cooked meals with a touch of sophistication!
Fish Florentine
Ingredients
For the Fish
- 4 pieces skinless white firm fish fillet (grouper, flounder, bass, or halibut)
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil Divided into two parts
- 1 tablespoon salted butter Divided into two parts
For the Spinach Mixture
- 1 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 9 ounces fresh baby spinach (2 bags)
- 2 ounces 1/3 less fat cream cheese (recommended: Philadelphia)
- ¼ cup half & half cream
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Vegetables
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine ½ tablespoon of olive oil and ½ tablespoon of butter.
- Add the chopped red bell pepper and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the spinach, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the spinach wilts down.
- Add the cream cheese, half & half, and Parmesan cheese. Blend well until the cream cheese melts and the mixture resembles creamed spinach.
Cooking the Fish
- In a separate skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
- Season the fish fillets on both sides with salt and pepper. Place them on the hot pan.
- Cook the fish for 6 minutes on the first side, then carefully flip them over and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the fish is cooked through and nicely browned.
Serving
- On each plate, divide the spinach mixture and place a piece of fish on top.
