Pistachio Crusted Grouper combines the mild, sweet flavor of grouper fish with a crunchy, nutty crust of pistachios, creating a dish that’s not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing. Ideal for a sophisticated dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is simple enough to prepare but offers a complex array of textures and flavors that are sure to impress.
What is Pistachio Crusted Grouper?
Pistachio Crusted Grouper is a seafood dish where fillets of grouper are coated with a crust made from crushed pistachios, herbs, and breadcrumbs. This combination is then baked or pan-fried until the grouper is flaky and the crust is golden and crisp. The result is a perfect balance of creamy fish with a crispy topping.
Ingredients of This Recipe
Ingredient | Quantity |
Grouper fillets | 4 pieces (6 oz each) |
Shelled pistachios | 1 cup, finely chopped |
Panko breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
Lemon zest | 1 tablespoon |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Equipment for This Recipe
- Food processor (for chopping pistachios)
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instruction Detail of This Recipe
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Crust Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped pistachios, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare Grouper:
- Brush each grouper fillet lightly with olive oil.
- Coat the Grouper:
- Press the pistachio mixture onto the top of each fillet to form an even crust.
- Bake:
- Place the crusted fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
What to Serve with Pistachio Crusted Grouper?
This dish pairs well with:
- A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Steamed asparagus or green beans.
- Quinoa or wild rice is a hearty side.
What Does the Pistachio Crusted Grouper Taste Like?
Pistachio Crusted Grouper is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The grouper itself is mild and buttery, providing a soft contrast to the crunchy, nutty pistachio crust. The lemon zest and Parmesan add a bright, savory note that complements the natural sweetness of the fish.
How Healthy is This Pistachio Crusted Grouper?
This recipe is quite healthy, as grouper is a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The pistachios add healthy fats and a bit of fiber, making this dish balanced in terms of nutrition. Using olive oil and baking the fish rather than frying keeps the calorie count lower.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Pistachio Crusted Grouper
- Quality Fish: Use fresh, high-quality grouper for the best flavor and texture.
- Finely Chopped Pistachios: Ensure the pistachios are finely chopped to adhere better to the fish.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the oven to ensure the fish remains moist and tender.
What Makes This Recipe Delicious?
The combination of the crunchy, flavorful pistachio crust with the soft, mild grouper creates a delicious contrast in textures while enhancing the overall flavors of the dish. The addition of lemon zest and Parmesan brings a depth of flavor that makes this simple dish gourmet.
FAQs about Pistachio Crusted Grouper
- Can I use another type of fish?
- Yes, cod or halibut also work well with this recipe.
- Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
- Yes, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time?
- You can prepare the crust mixture ahead of time, but it’s best to bake the fish just before serving to maintain the crust’s crispiness.
- What are the best pistachios to use?
- Unsweetened, unshelled, and unsalted pistachios are best to control the flavor and salt content.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain the crust’s texture.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
Calories | 290 |
Protein | 35g |
Total Fat | 14g |
Carbohydrates | 9g |
Dietary Fiber | 2g |
Sugars | 1g |
Conclusion
Pistachio Crusted Grouper is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat, perfect for any occasion that calls for something a little extra special. With its health benefits and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite among those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Pistachio Crusted Grouper
Course: All RecipesCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy2
servings15
minutes15
minutes30
minutesExperience the flavors of the sea with our Pistachio Crusted Grouper recipe, featuring a crispy, nutty crust on tender fish. Perfect for a nutritious and delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Grouper filletst4 pieces (6 oz each)
Shelled pistachiost1 cup, finely chopped
Panko breadcrumbst1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese, gratedt1/4 cup
Garlic powdert1 teaspoon
Lemon zestt1 tablespoon
Olive oilt2 tablespoons
SalttTo taste
Black peppertTo taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine finely chopped pistachios, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Brush each grouper fillet lightly with olive oil.
- Press the pistachio mixture onto the top of each fillet to form an even crust.
- Place the crusted fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- Ensure the pistachios are finely chopped to adhere better to the fish.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
Serving Size1g
- Amount Per ServingCalories290
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
14g
22%
- Saturated Fat 0g 0%
- Total Carbohydrate
9g
3%
- Dietary Fiber 2g 8%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 35g 70%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.