Name: Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 clove large garlic; 1 large lemon; salt and freshly ground pepper; 12 strips Bacon; 4 trout fillets

This bacon-wrapped trout with lemon relish recipe is a perfect fusion of flavors. The freshness of the trout, the saltiness of the bacon, and the tanginess of the lemon relish come together to create a dish that is both savory and refreshing. All you need are a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time to prepare this delightful meal.

Photos of Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common household items, you may need to visit your local fishmonger or supermarket for the trout fillets. It's crucial to select trout that is fresh and of high quality as it will significantly influence the overall taste of the dish.

Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish

Extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and lemon, it enhances the flavors and adds a slight richness to the lemon relish.

Garlic: It gives a robust flavor to the lemon relish and complements the fish superbly.

Lemon: Its tanginess balances the saltiness of the bacon and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Salt and freshly ground pepper: Used to season the fish and the relish, they bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Bacon: It adds a wonderful aroma and a slight crunch to the soft textured trout.

Trout fillets: The star of the dish, trout has a rich, delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

One reader, Kev Barnhart says:

This bacon-wrapped trout with lemon relish recipe is a game-changer! The bacon adds a smoky flavor, and the lemon relish gives it a zesty kick. It's a delightful combination that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious. I highly recommend trying it out for a delightful dining experience.

Kev Barnhart

Techniques Required

How to prepare lemon relish: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add sliced garlic, and cook until golden. Then, add chopped lemon and cook until slightly softened. Season with salt and pepper.

How to wrap trout fillets with bacon: Wrap 3 slices of bacon around each trout fillet and secure the bacon with toothpicks.

How to cook bacon-wrapped trout fillets: Heat a large skillet over moderate heat, add the bacon-wrapped trout fillets, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bacon is browned and crisped, and the fish is just cooked through.

How To Make Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish

Flaky trout fillets are wrapped in bacon for a crispy and juicy bite then topped with homemade lemon relish for a pleasing and refreshing tang.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspextra virgin olive oil
1clovelarge garlic,thinly sliced
1large lemon,peeled
salt and freshly ground pepper
12stripsbacon,thick-cut smokehouse
4trout fillets,or fresh herring fillets

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a small skillet. Add the sliced garlic and cook over low heat for about 1 minute until golden. Add the chopped lemon and cook over moderate heat for about 2 minutes until slightly softened.
Scrape the lemon relish into a small glass or stainless steel bowl and season with salt and pepper.
Wrap 3 slices of bacon around each trout or herring fillet. Secure the bacon with toothpicks.
Heat a large skillet over moderately high heat. Add the bacon-wrapped trout fillets and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bacon is browned and crisped and the fish is just cooked through.
Transfer to plates, spoon the lemon relish on top and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1042.71kcal
Fat: 66.02g
Saturated Fat: 18.33g
Trans Fat: 0.33g
Monounsaturated Fat: 26.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.83g
Carbohydrates: 4.30g
Fiber: 0.96g
Sugar: 1.35g
Protein: 101.76g
Cholesterol: 324.69mg
Sodium: 1312.59mg
Calcium: 132.40mg
Potassium: 1932.67mg
Iron: 2.08mg
Vitamin A: 390.73µg
Vitamin C: 23.13mg

Technique Tip for Perfectly Cooked Trout

When wrapping the trout fillets with bacon, ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly and secured well with toothpicks. This will prevent the bacon from unraveling during the cooking process. Additionally, using thin-cut bacon can help it to crisp up nicely while not overcooking the fish. Remember, the goal is to achieve a balance where both the fish and bacon are cooked perfectly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dish

Prep ahead: Prepare the lemon relish and wrap the trout fillets with bacon the night before. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use kitchen shears: Instead of using a knife to slice the bacon, use kitchen shears to easily and quickly cut the strips.

Multi-task: While the bacon-wrapped trout is cooking, use that time to prepare any side dishes or set the table to save time in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish Recipe

extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
large garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding a unique twist to the dish.
large lemon - Substitute with Meyer lemon: Meyer lemons have a sweeter and less acidic flavor compared to regular lemons, which can add a subtle, fragrant twist to the relish.
salt and freshly ground pepper - Substitute with kosher salt and ground white pepper: These substitutes can provide a similar seasoning effect while adding a slightly different flavor profile to the dish.
bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto can provide a similar salty, savory flavor and can be used to wrap the trout, adding a delicious twist to the dish.
trout fillets - Substitute with salmon fillets: Salmon can be a suitable substitute for trout, offering a similar texture and flavor profile when prepared in this recipe.

Plating Ideas for an Impressive Presentation

Elevate the plating: Arrange the bacon-wrapped trout fillets on the plate with precision and attention to detail, ensuring that each element is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate color contrast: Introduce vibrant and visually appealing elements such as a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a touch of microgreens to add a pop of color to the dish.
Focus on balance and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of the lemon relish, ensuring that it complements the dish and adds a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing some areas of the plate to remain empty, creating a sense of balance and sophistication.
Highlight the bacon texture: Showcase the crispy and golden-brown bacon, ensuring that its texture and visual appeal are emphasized in the plating.
Emphasize the freshness of the ingredients: Highlight the natural beauty of the trout fillets and the vibrant colors of the lemon relish to convey a sense of freshness and quality.
Incorporate a touch of sophistication: Add a subtle drizzle of high-quality olive oil around the plate to elevate the visual appeal and add a touch of luxury to the presentation.
Pay attention to plate composition: Consider the overall composition of the plate, ensuring that each element is placed thoughtfully and contributes to a visually stunning presentation.

How To Store / Freeze Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish

To store leftover bacon-wrapped trout, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
If you have extra lemon relish, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It can be used as a condiment for other fish or meat dishes.
To freeze the bacon-wrapped trout, wrap each piece 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 with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to eat the frozen bacon-wrapped trout, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the fillets on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Do not refreeze previously frozen fish.
It is not recommended to freeze the lemon relish, as the texture and flavor may change significantly upon thawing. It is best to make the relish fresh when needed.

How To Reheat Leftovers

The best way to reheat leftover bacon-wrapped trout is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is heated through and the bacon is crispy again. This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the dish.
Alternatively, you can reheat the trout in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan, and cook the fillets for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy. Be careful not to overcook the fish, as it can quickly become dry and tough.
To reheat the lemon relish, place it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through. You can also microwave the relish in a microwave-safe dish for 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through.
If you want to maintain the crispiness of the bacon while reheating, you can remove it from the trout fillets and reheat it separately in a skillet or in the oven on a baking sheet. Once the bacon is crispy, you can place it back on top of the reheated trout.
When reheating the bacon-wrapped trout, be sure to check the internal temperature of the fish using a meat thermometer. The trout should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure it's safe to eat.

Random Fact about Bacon-Wrapped Trout

The bacon-wrapped trout with lemon relish recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that provides a good source of protein and healthy fats. Trout is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Additionally, the combination of bacon and lemon relish adds a unique and flavorful twist to the dish. This recipe is a great way to incorporate more seafood into your diet and enjoy a tasty, well-balanced meal.

Is This Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

This bacon-wrapped trout with lemon relish recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of bacon and trout may increase the cost, but the dish offers a delightful and indulgent dining experience. The lemon relish adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the bacon and trout. On a scale of 1-10, this recipe rates an 8 for its flavor and presentation. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30, factoring in the quality of the ingredients.

Is This Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

The bacon-wrapped trout with lemon relish recipe is a delicious dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

High in saturated fat: Bacon is high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
Potential for high sodium content: Bacon is also high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.
Trout is a lean protein: On the positive side, trout is a lean protein source rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Lemon relish adds freshness: The lemon relish provides a fresh, citrusy flavor and some additional nutrients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use a leaner bacon alternative, such as turkey bacon or prosciutto, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Wrap the trout fillets with fewer bacon slices or use smaller pieces to decrease the overall bacon quantity.
Grill or bake the bacon-wrapped trout instead of pan-frying to reduce the amount of added fat.
Serve the dish with a side of fresh vegetables or a light salad to increase the nutrient content and balance the meal.
Use fresh herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on excessive salt.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of bacon-wrapped trout while making the dish more nutritious and better aligned with a healthy lifestyle.

Editor's Opinion on the Flavors and Textures

This bacon-wrapped trout with lemon relish recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The bacon adds a smoky and savory element to the delicate trout, while the lemon relish provides a bright and zesty contrast. The cooking method ensures that the bacon is perfectly crisp and the fish remains tender and moist. Overall, this dish is a wonderful balance of richness and freshness, making it a delightful choice for a special meal or gathering.

Enhance Your Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted vegetables, including carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, seasoned with herbs and olive oil.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, kiwi, and pineapple, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.

Similar Recipes to Try

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette before grilling for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Honey Mustard Glazed Ham: Coat a juicy ham with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze for a mouthwatering main course that's perfect for any special occasion.

Berry Cobbler: Combine fresh berries with a buttery biscuit topping for a delightful dessert that's best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Bacon-Wrapped Trout

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: For a delicious and savory appetizer, try making stuffed mushrooms. You can fill them with a variety of ingredients like cream cheese, garlic, and herbs for a flavorful bite-sized treat.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese skewers are a fresh and colorful appetizer option. Simply thread cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil onto skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a simple yet elegant starter.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a velvety smooth cheesecake, swirled with a vibrant strawberry sauce and garnished with fresh sliced strawberries. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries creates a perfect balance of flavors.

Why trust this Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. The use of bacon adds a rich, smoky essence, complementing the delicate trout perfectly. The addition of lemon relish provides a zesty and refreshing element, enhancing the overall dish. With the incorporation of high-quality ingredients such as olive oil and fresh garlic, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of savory and citrusy notes. The careful preparation and cooking techniques ensure a delectable outcome, making it a trustworthy choice for a memorable meal.

Want to share your experience making this Bacon-Wrapped Trout with Lemon Relish Recipe or discuss variations and serving suggestions? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What type of bacon works best for this recipe?

Any type of bacon will work for this recipe, but I recommend using thick-cut bacon to ensure it crisps up nicely and adds a substantial flavor to the trout.

Can I use a different type of fish instead of trout?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with a variety of fish such as salmon, halibut, or even tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish fillets.

Is it necessary to use toothpicks to secure the bacon?

Using toothpicks to secure the bacon around the fish fillets helps to keep the bacon in place while cooking. However, if you prefer not to use toothpicks, you can try wrapping the bacon tightly around the fish and tucking the ends underneath.

Can I prepare the lemon relish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the lemon relish ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best to use it within a day or two for the freshest flavor.

How do I know when the fish is cooked through?

The fish is cooked through when it turns opaque and easily flakes with a fork. It's important not to overcook the fish to keep it tender and moist. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.