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Homemade Basil Tapenade Baked Whitefish photo

Basil Tapenade Baked Whitefish

This Basil Tapenade Baked Whitefish is a stunning dish that’s simple to prepare and bursting with flavor!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 ounces Castelvetrano olives pitted
  • 15 large basil leaves
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil or more as needed
  • 1 teaspoon capers rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1 small clove)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 4 filets wild-caught whitefish (such as cod or haddock, 4 ounces each)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Food processor
  • Baking dish
  • Measuring spoons
  • Chef's knife
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking fish, ensuring it cooks evenly and stays moist.
  2. In a food processor, combine the pitted Castelvetrano olives, large basil leaves, extra virgin olive oil, capers, minced garlic, and lemon zest. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined. You want a spreadable consistency, so add more olive oil if necessary to achieve the desired texture.
  3. Place the whitefish filets in a baking dish. Season them generously with freshly ground black pepper. The fish should be arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
  4. Using a spatula, spread the basil tapenade evenly over the top of each fish filet. Make sure each piece is well-coated to absorb all the delicious flavors during baking.
  5. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the filets.
  6. Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for an added zing. Enjoy your Basil Tapenade Baked Whitefish with a simple salad or your favorite grain for a complete meal.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, use fresh basil; it really makes a difference in the tapenade.
  • Make sure to rinse the capers thoroughly to remove excess salt before adding them to the tapenade.
  • Choose wild-caught fish for better flavor and sustainability.
  • Don’t skip the lemon wedges! They add a refreshing contrast to the rich tapenade.