My Culinary Delights: Favorite Ways to Prepare Fish and Perfect Choices

Choosing the right fish and the perfect way to prepare it can significantly enhance any meal. From simple yet flavorful preparations to complex dishes, I share my favorite techniques and fish selections here.

All'Isolana Tradition

One of the most delightful ways to prepare fish is the All'Isolana method, which comes from the Sicilian island of Pantelleria. Here, fish fillets are gently cooked in extra virgin olive oil, then set aside while cherry tomatoes, capers, and olives are added to the pan. After a short simmer, the fish fillets are reintroduced and seasoned with salt and white pepper. This method works wonderfully with fish like bream, bass, turbot, or even perch and pike.

This recipe Planet Fish guides you through the detailed steps to achieve this delicious and simple preparation. Feel free to experiment with different types of fish to find your favorite!

Authentic Greek Grilling

One of my favorite ways to prepare fish is by grilling them the way the Greeks do. Simply fill a whole fish with fresh herbs and place a lemon wedge in the head before grilling. This method works perfectly with varieties such as lorigo, groper (branzino), and orate. For Dover sole, pan-searing in butter is a classic choice, while flounder and soles are fantastic when steamed or baked.

Grilled sardines are also a delightful option, providing a crispy outer layer and a succulent inner flesh.

Summer Seafood Cuisine

When the weather is warm and lively, a seafood night is the perfect occasion to impress friends and family. My starters often include raw halibut served with apple, green jalapeno, and chervil, while a grilled Orata with vegetables and mussels is a delightful main course, finished with a tangy scallop coral mayo. For a more indulgent experience, choose lobster, salmon, or scallops. My favorite way to prepare squid is by grilling them with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

For salmon, I bake it on parchment paper with the skin side down, then top it with a thick layer of mayonnaise and finish it under the broiler with minced chives and crumbled bacon bits. Fresh cod prepared with a slight salt cure and bac before serving with a red wine reduction is another favorite.

Mediterranean Seaflavors

There are several favorite fish that I particularly enjoy in my culinary pursuits. Bronzino, when pan-fried or roasted, offers a perfect balance of flavor. Similarly, Chilean sea bass is excellent when pan-seared, while grouper has a delightful texture when pan-seared. King fish and red snapper can be enjoyed both pan-seared and fried, but for a twist, I often prepare them escovitch style. For those who appreciate a truly luxurious dish, salmon pan-seared until golden on the outside and juicy inside is a must-try.

Red snapper, also known locally as Wala-Wala, is a prized catch in many communities. It's essential to catch it fresh, place it on ice as soon as possible, and then grill or cook it traditionally on an open flame. On occasion, larger bluefin tuna may also be caught and served at a community cookout, providing a memorable experience for all.

Conclusion

The art of preparing fish is as diverse as the array of fish available. From simple methods like grilling to complex preparations involving herbs, spices, and sauces, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned chef, experimenting with these methods can lead to delightful culinary adventures. Bon appétit!