Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish

Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish is a delicious and light dish that is perfect for a summer meal. The combination of crispy cornmeal-coated sole with a tangy tomato caper relish is sure to impress your guests.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Lemon sole is a popular fish that is known for its delicate flavor and flaky texture. By coating the fish in cornmeal and topping it with a fresh tomato caper relish, this recipe adds a unique and flavorful twist to a traditional dish.

Ingredients

0.5 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves
0.25 cup cornmeal
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1.5 lb (680 g) lemon sole cut in 40 pieces
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Tomato Caper Relish

1 cup fresh tomatoes, seeded, peeled, and diced
0.25 cup red onion, diced
0.25 cup capers
1 tbsp chives, finely sliced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove fresh garlic, minced
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground white pepper
juice of 0.5 lemon

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to broil and lightly grease a broiler pan.
In a bowl, stir together the yogurt and chopped basil, then set it aside.
In another bowl, blend the cornmeal, salt, and pepper.
Brush the sole with olive oil and dredge it in the cornmeal mixture.
Arrange the fillets on the broiler pan and broil them without turning for 4 minutes.
Pull the pan out from under the broiler and spread a thick layer of the basil yogurt mixture over the top of each piece.
Put the pan back under the broiler for an additional 30 seconds.

Tomato Caper Relish

To make the relish, combine all ingredients and serve it over the fish.

Variations

Substitute the sole with another white fish such as cod or halibut.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the tomato caper relish for an extra burst of flavor.
Top the fish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before broiling for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pat the sole dry before dredging it in the cornmeal mixture to ensure a crispy coating.

- Broil the fish without turning it to prevent it from falling apart.

- Be sure to watch the fish closely while broiling to prevent it from burning.

- The tomato caper relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Broiling is a quick and easy cooking technique that gives the fish a crispy exterior while keeping it moist and tender on the inside. It is important to watch the fish closely while broiling to prevent it from overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Greek yogurt can be used in place of plain yogurt for a tangier flavor.

- Fresh parsley or cilantro can be used in place of basil in the yogurt mixture.

- Green olives can be used in place of capers in the tomato caper relish.

Make Ahead Tips

The tomato caper relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The fish can be coated in the cornmeal mixture and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 hour before broiling.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish on a bed of mixed greens for a colorful and elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a slice of lemon for a finishing touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a glass of sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 20% of daily value per serving

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: Fish, Dairy

Summary

This dish is a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish is a light and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer meal. With a crispy cornmeal coating and a tangy tomato caper relish, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting my friend Martha, who lived in a quaint little cottage by the sea. As we sat on her porch, sipping iced tea and watching the sun set over the water, Martha suddenly jumped up and announced that she was going to cook us a special dinner.

I followed her into the kitchen, where she began pulling out ingredients and pots and pans with the kind of confidence that comes from years of practice. I watched in awe as she expertly filleted a lemon sole, coated it in a crispy cornmeal crust, and topped it with a tangy tomato caper relish. The combination of flavors and textures was simply delightful, and I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

Martha noticed my interest and graciously offered to teach me her recipe. She explained that she had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I listened intently as she shared her tips and tricks for preparing the fish just right, and I eagerly took notes on the ingredients and measurements.

Over the following weeks, I practiced making Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish in my own kitchen. I experimented with different seasonings and cooking techniques, tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Each time I made the dish, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment as I watched my family and friends savor every bite.

As the years went by, my version of the recipe became a staple in our household. Whenever we had guests over for dinner, I would proudly serve up my Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I loved sharing this dish with others, knowing that it had been passed down to me from my dear friend Martha and her grandmother before her.

One day, while I was visiting Martha again, she surprised me with a beautifully handwritten recipe card for Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish. She told me that she had been saving it for a special occasion, and she wanted me to have it as a token of our friendship and shared love of cooking. I was touched by her gesture and vowed to cherish the recipe for years to come.

Now, whenever I make Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish, I think of Martha and the wonderful memories we shared in her seaside cottage. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills she passed on to me, and I take pride in continuing the tradition of preparing this delicious dish for my own family and friends.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Lemon Sole in Cornmeal with Tomato Caper Relish, I am filled with gratitude for the bonds that food can create between people. It is more than just a meal – it is a symbol of friendship, love, and tradition. And for that, I am truly thankful.