Fish Pasta in Buttery Tomato Sauce
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INGREDIENTS
- 16 ounces/450 grams pasta, cooked according to instructions
- 1 whole fish of choice, or fillet
- 6 large tomatoes, halved
- 2 shallots, halved
- ½ garlic head
- 1 red chili pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 tablespoons butter, adjust as needed
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat the oven to 355°F (180°C).
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the fish, tomatoes, shallots, garlic, and chili on the tray. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Once done, blend the tomatoes, shallots, garlic, and chili. Add the butter and a bit of olive oil, and blend until smooth. Transfer the sauce to a wide pan, adding 1/3 cup (80 ml) of the pasta cooking water. When the sauce boils, stir in the pasta and cook for 3 minutes.
- Plate the pasta, top with pieces of the fish, and garnish with black pepper, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil.
MY NOTES
FAQ
What type of fish works best for this recipe?
Any firm, white fish like cod, halibut, or snapper works well for this recipe. These fish hold their shape and blend well with the sauce. You can also use salmon or trout if you prefer richer flavors. The key is to choose a fish that complements the lightness of the pasta and sauce without overpowering it. If you’re using fillets, make sure to avoid fish that easily flakes apart, like tilapia, as it may not hold up well during cooking.
Can I use frozen fish instead of fresh?
You can use frozen fish for this recipe, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Frozen fish can be just as nutritious and flavorful as fresh fish when handled properly. To thaw, place the fish in the fridge overnight or use the quick-thaw method by submerging it in cold water. Be sure to pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before baking. This will help the fish roast evenly and avoid turning mushy.
How can I make the sauce creamier?
To make the sauce creamier, you can add heavy cream, half-and-half, or a splash of milk to the sauce after blending the tomatoes, shallots, garlic, and chili. Stir in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of cream while simmering the sauce. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream or cashew cream can add richness without altering the flavor too much. Another tip is to blend in some cooked, mashed potatoes or roasted red peppers for a naturally creamy texture without the need for extra fats.
Is this fish pasta recipe gluten free?
The fish pasta recipe itself can be made gluten free by using gluten free pasta. Most grocery stores offer a variety of gluten free pasta options made from rice, corn, quinoa, or chickpeas. Double-check that all other ingredients, like seasonings and butter, are gluten free as well. While the sauce and fish are naturally gluten free, pasta made from wheat would need to be substituted to accommodate gluten free diets. Be mindful of cross-contamination if you are cooking for someone with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance.
Can I add other seafood to this fish pasta dish?
Adding other seafood like shrimp, mussels, clams, or scallops can enhance the flavor of the dish and make it more of a seafood pasta. Cook shrimp or scallops in a separate pan until just opaque, and add them to the sauce along with the fish. If using shellfish like mussels or clams, steam them separately and add their juices to the sauce for a rich, seafood-infused flavor. Just ensure the seafood cooks through properly before combining with the pasta.
How do I prevent the fish from overcooking in the oven?
To prevent the fish from overcooking, keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness early. Depending on the thickness of the fish, it can take less than 25 minutes to cook through. A good rule of thumb is to bake fish at 355°F (180°C) for 10 minutes per inch of thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145°F (63°C). You can also cover the fish loosely with foil during baking to retain moisture.
What type of pasta pairs well with fish?
Long, thin pasta types like spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine pair well with fish and light sauces. These types allow the sauce to coat the pasta evenly without overwhelming the delicate fish. You can also use short pasta like penne or fusilli if you prefer a heartier dish. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also work well, but choose varieties that are not too heavy to maintain balance with the fish. Fresh pasta, if available, adds a soft, luxurious texture to complement the dish.
Can I substitute the butter with a dairy-free option?
You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free option like vegan butter, margarine, or olive oil. Vegan butter will provide a similar creamy texture to regular butter, while olive oil gives a lighter finish. Coconut oil is another alternative, though it may impart a slight coconut flavor. If you want a richer taste, consider using cashew cream or a small amount of tahini for a nutty, dairy-free twist. Make sure your substitution blends well with the sauce ingredients.
How can I make this fish pasta spicier?
To make the fish pasta spicier, you can increase the amount of chili pepper, or add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a spicy sauce like sriracha to the sauce. If you want a deeper heat, consider adding a roasted jalapeño or a dash of hot paprika. For those who enjoy even more heat, you could mix in chopped fresh chilies like habanero or bird’s eye chili. Just be cautious with the amount, as too much spice can overpower the flavor of the fish.
What are some good side dishes to serve with fish pasta?
Good side dishes for fish pasta include a light, refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing, roasted vegetables, or a simple garlic bread. Steamed or grilled asparagus, zucchini, or a mix of Mediterranean vegetables like peppers and eggplant also pair nicely. If you want something starchy, roasted potatoes or a lemony couscous salad would complement the dish without making it too heavy. A chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can complete the meal.
