Seared Trout with Parsley and Caper Butter
This simple preparation for fish comes together so quickly that you don’t even need to start it until everyone is home.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. butter or margarine
- 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 1 - 1 1/2 lb. whole trout, cleaned, gutted, heads removed (the fishmonger can do this for you) or use trout, tilapia, or flounder fillets
- 2 Tbsp. capers with 1 Tbsp. of their liquid
- 1/2 cup fresh flat leaf parsley finely chopped
- 1 lemon cut into wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large heavy skillet (cast iron works great) or nonstick skillet over medium to medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbsp. butter into the oil.
- When the butter is bubbling, spread it around the pan and add the fish, flesh side down if you are using whole fish.
- Cook it for 2 – 3 minutes on the first side until it is golden brown in spots, then flip it, season it with a little bit of salt, and cook it for 2 more minutes until it is cooked through (or 1 – 2 minutes more for thicker fillets).
- Transfer the fish to a serving plate.
- To the hot pan, add the remaining butter, the capers and their liquid, and the parsley, and cook, stirring constantly for about 1 minute until it is hot and the flavors are nicely melded.
- Pour the sauce over the fish and serve it immediately, with lemon wedges, if desired.
Slow Cooker Directions
- Place each piece of fish on a separate square of aluminum foil large enough to enclose the fish completely. Place a pat of butter on each piece of fish, drizzle with oil, then top with capers and their liquid and parsley. Fold the foil into a packet around each. Place packets in the slow cooker, stacking as necessary, then cook on low for 5 - 6 hours or on high for 2 1/2 - 3 hours. (Slow cooker cooking times may vary—Get to know your slow cooker and, if necessary, adjust cooking times accordingly.)
Notes
Do Ahead or Delegate: Chop the parsley, cut the lemon if using.
Scramble Flavor Booster: Serve the fish with freshly ground pepper and a little drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
Tip: When purchasing whole fish, look for those with shiny scales, moist skin, and clear eyes. All of these qualities are indicators of the fish’s freshness.
Nutritional Information Per Serving (% based upon daily values): Calories 240, Total Fat: 16g, 23.5%; Saturated Fat: 6g, 29.5%; Cholesterol: 83mg, 27.5%; Sodium: 225mg, 9.5%; Total Carbohydrate: 0g, 0%; Dietary Fiber: 0g, 1%; Sugar: 0g; Protein: 24g
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