Bass with Basil

Introduction

History

The tradition of pairing fish with herbs dates back centuries, with various cultures around the world using local herbs to enhance the flavor of seafood. The combination of bass with basil specifically can be traced to Mediterranean cuisine, where both ingredients are staples. Over time, this pairing has gained popularity across different cuisines, evolving into the refined yet simple dish we enjoy today.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

References

1. ↑ You can substitute orange roughy, snapper, halibut or seabass filets.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when preparing Bass with Basil, consider the following tips:

- Always use fresh basil and lemon for the most vibrant flavors.

- Marinating the fish not only adds flavor but also helps to keep it moist during grilling.

- To prevent sticking, make sure your grill is clean and properly oiled before cooking the fish.

- Cook the fish skin-side down first to achieve a crispy skin.

- Be vigilant when sautéing garlic; it should be fragrant and lightly golden, not browned.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bass with Basil alongside a light salad, steamed vegetables, or a simple pasta dish for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the recommended cooking technique for this recipe, as it imparts a smoky flavor to the fish that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the basil. However, the fish can also be baked or broiled if preferred.

Ingredient Substitutions

If striped bass is not available, other firm white fish such as cod, halibut, or sea bass can be used as substitutes. For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

The garlic butter sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Simply reheat gently before serving. The fish should be marinated for at least 30 minutes but can be left in the marinade for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, place the grilled fish on a platter and drizzle generously with the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges.

Pairing Recommendations

In addition to white wine, this dish pairs well with light-bodied red wines like Pinot Noir or a crisp rosé. For non-alcoholic options, consider a lemon-infused sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Bass with Basil can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to prevent the fish from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Bass with Basil contains approximately 300 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option that fits well into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being the lemon juice and garlic. The total carbohydrate content is approximately 5 grams per serving, making it a suitable option for low-carb diets.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the olive oil and butter, contributing to the dish's richness and mouthfeel. The total fat content is approximately 20 grams per serving, with a balance of monounsaturated, polyunsaturated, and saturated fats.

Proteins

Striped bass is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Each serving of this dish provides roughly 35 grams of protein, making it a hearty and nutritious option for any meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Bass with Basil is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, B12, selenium, and phosphorus from the fish, along with Vitamin K, manganese, and iron from the basil. These nutrients support bone health, immune function, and more.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are fish and dairy (butter). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Bass with Basil is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's low in carbohydrates and calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Summary

Bass with Basil is a timeless recipe that showcases the natural flavors of the fish enhanced by the aromatic presence of basil. With its simple preparation and nutritious profile, it's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this recipe is sure to impress with its elegant flavors and healthy benefits.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Bass with Basil. It was a warm summer day, and I found myself wandering through the bustling streets of a quaint little fishing village in Italy. The salty sea air filled my lungs as I passed by fisherman hauling in their fresh catches of the day.

As I meandered through the narrow cobblestone streets, I came across a small market lined with stalls overflowing with vibrant produce and the most delectable seafood. My eyes were immediately drawn to a display of the most beautiful bass I had ever seen. The fish glistened in the sunlight, its scales shimmering like jewels.

Intrigued, I struck up a conversation with the fishmonger, a weathered old man with a twinkle in his eye. He began to regale me with stories of the sea and the art of cooking fish. He spoke with such passion and enthusiasm that I found myself hanging on his every word.

He told me that the key to a perfect dish of bass with basil lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Fresh fish, fragrant basil, ripe tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil were all that was needed to create a masterpiece. He handed me a handwritten recipe, yellowed with age and stained with fish scales, and insisted that I give it a try.

Excited by the prospect of learning a new recipe, I hurried back to my tiny kitchen in the heart of the village. I carefully cleaned and filleted the bass, taking care to remove any bones. I then sliced ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, the scent of the herb filling the room with a sweet, earthy aroma.

As I heated a pan with a generous drizzle of olive oil, I thought back to the fishmonger's words of wisdom. He had told me that the key to cooking fish was to let it speak for itself, to enhance its natural flavors rather than mask them with heavy sauces or seasonings.

I gently placed the fillets of bass into the sizzling pan, the flesh turning a delicate shade of pink as it cooked. I added the tomatoes and basil, their colors mingling together in a vibrant dance of red and green.

I couldn't help but smile as I watched the dish come together before my eyes. The fish was tender and flaky, the tomatoes bursting with juicy sweetness, and the basil adding a fresh, herbaceous note that tied everything together.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it with care, garnishing it with a sprig of fresh basil for a finishing touch. I took a bite, savoring the delicate flavors that danced across my palate.

As I sat at my kitchen table, enjoying my meal in the soft glow of the setting sun, I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my culinary repertoire. The bass with basil was a testament to the beauty of simplicity, a dish that celebrated the natural bounty of the sea and the earth.

And so, I continue to make this recipe for bass with basil, each time with a sense of joy and gratitude for the fishmonger who had shared his wisdom with me on that fateful summer day in Italy. It is a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to the world around us.

Categories

| Basil Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Garlic Recipes | Halibut Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | Orange Roughy Recipes | Perch Recipes | Seabass Recipes | Snapper Recipes |

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