Pan-Fried Whole Trout with Lemon and Garlic

This simple yet flavorful recipe brings out the best in fresh whole trout. The combination of lemon and garlic infuses the fish with a delicate yet rich aroma, while the crispy skin adds a satisfying texture. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly delicious, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

Two fresh whole trout (either rainbow or brook), cleaned and descaled

1 large lemon, thinly sliced

4 thinly sliced garlic cloves (or as much as desired)

Sea salt, to taste

Freshly ground black peppercorns, to taste

Splash of white wine (optional, but enhances flavor)

Good-quality extra virgin olive oil

Directions:

Prepare the Fish:

Begin by patting the trout dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

This allows the seasoning to adhere properly and ensures uniform cooking.

Generously rub both the exterior and interior of the fish with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to season it well.

Stuff with Aromatics:

Place a few slices of lemon and as many garlic slices as you like inside the fish cavity. The lemon adds a bright, zesty note, while the garlic imparts a deep, savory aroma. If you have any extra lemon or garlic slices left over, set them aside for later use.

Heat the Pan:

In an extra-large frying pan or a grill pan, heat one to two tablespoons of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to get hot, but not smoking, as this ensures a nice sear on the fish.

Cook the Trout:

Carefully place the whole trouts into the hot pan. Cook for approximately 8 minutes on one side, resisting the urge to move the fish too much to ensure a beautiful golden-brown crust.

Flip and Continue Cooking:

Using a spatula or tongs, gently flip the fish to cook the other side. At this stage, add a splash or two of white wine if using—it will sizzle and deglaze the pan, infusing the fish with additional depth of flavor. If you reserved any extra garlic, now is the time to toss it into the pan.

Final Touches:

Cook for another 8 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed, the fish feels firm to the touch, and the skin is nicely crisped. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and weight of the fish. The trout should be fully opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork.

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the fish from the pan and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes. A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top can enhance the flavors even further.

Serving Suggestions:

This beautifully cooked trout pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

Extra Lemon Wedges: To allow guests to add more citrus brightness if desired.

Steamed Rice: A simple and neutral base that complements the flavors of the fish.

Garlic Creamed Spinach: A creamy, rich side that enhances the dish’s garlic notes.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fish.

Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted potatoes, asparagus, or carrots for a heartier meal.

This technique works beautifully with other whole fish, such as branzino, snapper, or sea bass.

You can also try different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your preference.

Enjoy your meal! 🍽️

Looking for a hearty meal? Try our delicious (beef) recipes, packed with bold flavors and tender cuts of meat.

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