For a quick and delicious meal, flash baking walleye fillets is an excellent choice. This method ensures the fish remains tender and flavorful while requiring minimal effort. The combination of lemon pepper and basil creates a delightful seasoning that complements the natural taste of the walleye.
Photos of Flash Baked Walleye Fillets Recipe
If you don't typically stock your kitchen with clarified butter, be sure to pick some up at the supermarket. This ingredient adds a rich, buttery flavor without the milk solids that can burn at high temperatures. You can usually find it in the dairy section or make it yourself by melting and straining regular butter.
Ingredients for Flash Baked Walleye Fillets
clarified butter: A form of butter that has had the water and milk solids removed, resulting in a higher smoke point and a rich, pure butter flavor.
walleye: A freshwater fish known for its mild, slightly sweet flavor and flaky texture, ideal for quick cooking methods like flash baking.
lemon pepper: A seasoning blend typically made from granulated lemon zest and cracked black peppercorns, adding a tangy and zesty flavor to dishes.
dried basil: An aromatic herb that imparts a sweet and slightly peppery flavor, commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.
One reader, Jorie Hatfield says:
This flash baked walleye fillets recipe is a game-changer! The fish turns out perfectly flaky and flavorful with minimal effort. The lemon pepper and basil add a delightful touch. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Techniques Required for Flash Baked Walleye Fillets
How to clarify butter: Clarifying butter involves melting it and separating the milk solids and water from the butterfat. This results in a clear, golden liquid that has a higher smoke point and a richer flavor.
How to preheat an oven: Preheating an oven means setting it to the desired temperature and allowing it to reach that temperature before placing the food inside. This ensures even cooking.
How to bake fish: Baking fish involves cooking it in an oven at a specified temperature until it reaches the desired doneness. For this recipe, it means baking the walleye fillets until they are opaque and flake easily with a fork.
How To Make Flash Baked Walleye Fillets
This super quick and easy recipe for walleye fillets only has 4 ingredients and can be done in 15 minutes. The fish is seasoned & quickly baked until flaky.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3tbspclarified butter,melted
- 4ozwalleye,(4 fillets) cut into pieces
- ½tsplemon pepper
- ½tspdried basil
Instructions
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Preheat an oven to 500 degrees F.
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Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the fillets into the butter, skin-side-down. Sprinkle evenly with lemon pepper and basil.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the fish is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
Nutrition
- Calories: 111.57kcal
- Fat: 9.91g
- Saturated Fat: 6.02g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.85g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.49g
- Carbohydrates: 0.27g
- Fiber: 0.12g
- Sugar: 0.00g
- Protein: 5.51g
- Cholesterol: 48.96mg
- Sodium: 14.79mg
- Calcium: 35.13mg
- Potassium: 117.88mg
- Iron: 0.48mg
- Vitamin A: 86.72µg
- Vitamin C: 0.00mg
Technique Tip for Flash Baking Walleye Fillets
To ensure the walleye fillets cook evenly and achieve a perfect texture, make sure they are of uniform thickness. If some parts of the fillet are significantly thicker, consider using a sharp knife to trim them down or gently pound them with a meat mallet to even out the thickness. This helps the fish cook uniformly and prevents overcooking thinner sections.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Recipe
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven to 500 degrees F while you gather ingredients to save time.
Use clarified butter: Clarified butter has a higher smoke point, ensuring it won't burn at high temperatures.
Prep ingredients ahead: Measure out lemon pepper and dried basil in advance to streamline the process.
Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper or foil in your 9x13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup.
Check doneness quickly: The walleye should flake easily with a fork in 5-7 minutes, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Flash Baked Walleye Fillets Recipe
clarified butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee is essentially the same as clarified butter and provides a similar rich, nutty flavor.
clarified butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier alternative and works well for high-heat cooking.
walleye - Substitute with tilapia: Tilapia has a mild flavor and similar texture, making it a good alternative.
walleye - Substitute with cod: Cod is another mild-flavored fish that can be used in place of walleye.
lemon pepper - Substitute with lemon zest and black pepper: Fresh lemon zest combined with black pepper can mimic the citrusy and peppery notes of lemon pepper seasoning.
lemon pepper - Substitute with citrus herb seasoning: This blend often includes lemon and herbs, providing a similar flavor profile.
dried basil - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used in place of dried basil, though you may need to use more to achieve the same intensity of flavor.
dried basil - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a similar herbaceous quality and can be used as an alternative.
Presenting Flash Baked Walleye Fillets
Use a pristine white plate: Select a large, pristine white plate to make the colors of the walleye and garnishes pop, providing a clean canvas for your presentation.
Create a butter pool: Pour a small pool of clarified butter on the plate where the walleye fillet will rest. This not only adds flavor but also gives a luxurious sheen.
Position the fillet elegantly: Place the walleye fillet slightly off-center on the plate, skin-side down, to create a dynamic visual appeal.
Add a citrus twist: Garnish with thin slices of lemon or a lemon zest curl on top of the fillet to enhance the lemon pepper seasoning and add a pop of color.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh basil around the plate to complement the dried basil used in the recipe, adding both visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor.
Include a vegetable element: Add a small, artfully arranged side of blanched asparagus or baby carrots to introduce vibrant colors and textures.
Drizzle a light sauce: Lightly drizzle a lemon butter sauce around the plate, ensuring it doesn't overpower the delicate flavor of the walleye.
Finish with microgreens: Top the dish with a small handful of microgreens for a touch of elegance and a hint of freshness.
Use edible flowers: Place a couple of edible flowers on the plate to add a sophisticated and colorful finishing touch.
Serve with a side of artisanal bread: Accompany the dish with a slice of artisanal bread on a separate small plate, enhancing the dining experience without cluttering the main presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Walleye Fillets
Oven: Used to preheat to 500 degrees F (260 degrees C) and bake the walleye fillets.
9x13-inch baking dish: Holds the fillets and clarified butter during baking.
Measuring spoons: Measures the clarified butter, lemon pepper, and dried basil accurately.
Basting brush: Helps to evenly spread the clarified butter in the baking dish.
Fish spatula: Assists in placing the fillets into the baking dish and removing them once baked.
Fork: Used to check if the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
Oven mitts: Protects your hands when handling the hot baking dish.
Storing and Freezing Flash Baked Walleye Fillets
Let the walleye fillets cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and affecting the texture of the fish.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled fillets in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the walleye fillets:
- Wrap each fillet individually in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped fillets in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen walleye fillets will maintain their best quality for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen fillets, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight. Do not thaw walleye at room temperature, as this can promote bacterial growth.
Once thawed, use the fillets within 1-2 days and do not refreeze them.
Reheat thawed or refrigerated walleye fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, you can reheat them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through.
How To Reheat Leftover Walleye Fillets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover walleye fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the fillets with a thin layer of clarified butter or olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the fish is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
For a quick and easy reheat, use your microwave. Place the leftover walleye fillets on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help retain moisture and prevent the fish from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the fish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the fish to become rubbery.
If you have a few extra minutes, try reheating your leftover walleye fillets in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of clarified butter or olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter or oil is hot, add the fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the fish is heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a flavorful twist, create a simple lemon butter sauce to reheat your leftover walleye fillets. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Place the leftover fillets in the sauce and spoon the mixture over the fish. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is heated through and the sauce is fragrant.
Random Fact About Flash Baked Walleye Fillets
A unique aspect of this flash baked walleye fillets recipe is its use of clarified butter, which has a higher smoke point than regular butter. This allows the fish to be cooked at a high temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a quick cooking time of just 5 to 7 minutes.
Is This Walleye Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This flash baked walleye fillets recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, walleye, is a bit pricier than common fish, but the simplicity of the recipe and minimal ingredients balance it out. The use of clarified butter and basic seasonings like lemon pepper and dried basil keeps the cost low. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $20-$25 USD.
Is This Walleye Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
The flash baked walleye fillets recipe is relatively healthy, as it uses a lean fish and minimal ingredients. Here are some positive aspects:
- Walleye is a low-fat, high-protein fish that provides essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health.
- The recipe uses clarified butter, which has a higher smoke point than regular butter and contains less lactose and casein, making it easier to digest for some people.
- Lemon pepper and basil add flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy additives.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved:
The recipe could be made even healthier with a few simple tweaks:
- Replace the clarified butter with a healthier fat like olive oil or avocado oil, which are rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
- Increase the amount of lemon pepper and basil, or add other herbs and spices like garlic powder, dill, or paprika for added flavor without increasing calorie content.
- Serve the walleye with a side of nutrient-dense vegetables like roasted broccoli, sautéed spinach, or a colorful salad to make it a well-rounded meal.
- Opt for wild-caught walleye when possible, as it may contain fewer contaminants and have a better fatty acid profile compared to farm-raised fish.
Editor's Thoughts on Flash Baked Walleye Fillets
This recipe for flash-baked walleye fillets is a quick and efficient way to enjoy a delicate fish. The use of clarified butter adds a rich, nutty flavor, while the lemon pepper and dried basil provide a balanced seasoning. Baking at a high temperature ensures the fillets cook quickly, preserving their moisture and tenderness. However, consider adding a splash of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs post-bake for an extra burst of freshness. Overall, it's a simple yet elegant dish that can be easily elevated with minimal effort.
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Why trust this Flash Baked Walleye Fillets Recipe:
This recipe for walleye fillets is a must-try for seafood lovers. The use of clarified butter ensures a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the delicate taste of the fish. The combination of lemon pepper and dried basil adds a refreshing and aromatic touch. With a quick bake at high heat, the fillets come out perfectly cooked, flaky, and delicious in just minutes. Trust this recipe for a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the natural flavors of walleye.
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