Save to Pinterest A playful, healthy dish designed in the shape of a fish, featuring fresh vegetables and tender white fish fillet. Perfect for a light lunch or an elegant starter.
I love how this dish transforms simple fish and veggies into a fun and visually appealing meal that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Fish: 2 small white fish fillets (e.g., cod or sole, ~120 g each), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetables: 1 small carrot, 1 small zucchini, 1/2 red bell pepper, 1/2 yellow bell pepper, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Decoration: 4 black olives (for eyes and scales), 2 slices cucumber (for fish mouth and tail)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Prepare Fish:
- Lay the fish fillets flat and use a sharp knife to trim one end into a point (the fish head) and cut small notches along the sides for fins.
- Season Fish:
- Brush the fillets with olive oil, sprinkle with lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Place them on the prepared tray.
- Add Vegetables:
- Use thin slices of carrot, zucchini, and bell peppers to create colorful scales on top of the fillets. Reserve a few slices for the tail and fins.
- Decorate:
- Use an olive slice for the eye and a cucumber slice for the mouth. Arrange remaining vegetables to form the tail and fins.
- Bake:
- Bake in the oven for 12–15 minutes, until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender but vibrant.
- Serve:
- Carefully transfer to plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest This recipe has become a fun family favorite that inspires creativity at the dinner table.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, baking tray, parchment paper, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish. May contain traces of allergens depending on fish source. Double-check ingredient labels if unsure.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 180, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 8 g, Protein: 22 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This light fish-shaped meal is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of fish works best for this dish?
Small white fillets like cod or sole are ideal for shaping and cooking quickly, but salmon can add a richer flavor and color.
- → Can this dish be prepared in advance?
It's best served immediately after baking to maintain the vibrant colors and fresh textures of the vegetables and fish.
- → How are the vegetables used in this dish?
Slices of carrot, zucchini, and bell peppers are arranged atop the fish to resemble scales, with additional pieces forming the tail and fins.
- → Are there vegetarian adaptations available?
Yes, tofu cut and shaped like fish can be used instead of white fish for a plant-based version.
- → What seasonings enhance the flavor?
Olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper provide bright, fresh seasoning, complemented by fresh parsley garnish.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish suitable for gluten-free eating.