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Baked Orange Roughy Recipe

If you’re looking for a light, flavorful seafood dish that’s quick to prepare, this Baked Orange Roughy is a perfect choice. With its mild, delicate flavor and tender texture, orange roughy pairs beautifully with lemon, herbs, and a touch of garlic. This recipe highlights the fish’s natural sweetness without overpowering it — and best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a healthier main course for guests, this dish delivers elegance and ease in one pan.

Ingredients

4 fillets Orange Roughy (fresh or properly thawed)
2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for drizzling and seasoning)
1 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground preferred)
2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice (about one lemon)
½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 tablespoon Chopped Fresh Herbs (parsley, dill, or a mix)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the fillets: Rinse the orange roughy fillets under cool water and pat dry with paper towels.
Season: Arrange the fillets in a lightly greased baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Sprinkle evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Add herbs: Scatter the chopped fresh herbs over the top to infuse the fish with color and freshness.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.
Serve: For a finishing touch, squeeze a little extra lemon juice over the top or garnish with fresh herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.
Healthy and Light: Packed with protein and low in fat.
Fresh Flavor: Lemon, herbs, and olive oil bring brightness to the mild fish.
Versatile: Simple enough for weeknights, yet elegant enough for entertaining.

Variations

Citrus Twist: Replace lemon juice with orange juice and a sprinkle of zest for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Herb Blend: Try different herbs such as basil, thyme, or tarragon for a unique twist.
Garlic Butter Version: Substitute olive oil with melted butter and add a dash of paprika for richness.
Parmesan Crust: Before baking, sprinkle the fillets with a light coating of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for a crisp, savory topping.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning for gentle heat.

Serving Suggestions

This baked orange roughy pairs well with a variety of sides. For a balanced and satisfying meal, try serving it with:

Steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or broccoli.
Rice pilaf or wild rice blend for a wholesome grain option.
Garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting, heartier pairing.
Fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette to keep things bright and refreshing.
Quinoa or couscous for a lighter, gluten-free option.

For presentation, garnish the plate with a wedge of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The simplicity of this dish allows the colors and flavors to shine.

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