I love all things fish. So, when rockfish went on sale at the local market, it was time to try some new recipes. Lemon was a must, then more seasonings and vegetables for simplicity at its best. Twenty minutes later, dinner was on the table, and my boys were happy. While rockfish is less famous than salmon or tuna, it’s still a great fish. The firm flesh is ideal for fish and chips, tacos, or any recipe calling for white fish. Since it’s usually a cold water fish, some use it raw in sashimi. What makes them awesome is their mild flavor; not fishy at all. They’re also high in omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy choice. So include a baked rockfish recipe in your recipe files for a stress-free and healthy weeknight dinner.
Is Rockfish Sustainable?
Sustainability is a valid concern. And because rockfish take such a long time to mature, overfishing has been a problem in the past. Did you know that rockfish can live up to 200 years? Fortunately, fisheries have successfully addressed the issue, and rockfish are back on the list of sustainable fish. With improved management, restrictions on fragile fishing areas, and catch limits, the rockfish have made a spectacular comeback. But, as always, please shop responsibly.
Recipe Ingredients
How to Bake Rockfish
Prep – Line your baking sheet with a sheet of parchment paper, then lightly spray with cooking spray. Set aside. Sauce – In a medium bowl, whisk olive oil, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, dill, Creole seasoning, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined. (Photo 1) Prep Veggies – In a large bowl, add prepared vegetables: cherry tomato, asparagus, onion, and bell pepper. Pour in half the garlic/Creole seasoning/butter sauce and stir to coat the vegetables. Transfer the vegetables to half the baking sheet in a thin layer with tongs. (Photos 2-4) Season Rockfish – Rinse rockfish fillets and place them on a plate. Pat them dry with a paper towel and brush them generously with the sauce to coat both sides. Transfer the rockfish fillet to the other half of the baking sheet in a single layer. (Photo 5) Pour the remaining sauce on the fish fillets and vegetables and evenly distribute it using the brush. Place lemon slices (if using) on the fish and vegetables. Bake at 400℉/205℃ for 15-18 minutes, then place on the top rack of the oven and broil on high for another 2-3 minutes. The cherry tomatoes should begin to pop open. (Photo 6) Serve – Garnish the rockfish with fresh dill and serve immediately.
How to Cook Rockfish (Methods)
This versatile fish is impressive. You can grill it, smoke it, broil it, bake it, steam it, pan-sear (or pan-fry) it, make chowder with it, fry it (my favorite, though the least healthy), and poach it.
Recipe Variations
Tips and Tricks
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Rockfish is an already easy dinner to prepare. But you can make it ahead for an even more stress-free dinner. Broil your fish and vegetables ahead, let them cool, and then store them airtight in the fridge for 2-3 days or freezer for up to 2 months. The same goes for leftover baked rockfish fillets. Bake to reheat or microwave when ready to enjoy.
What to Serve With Baked Rockfish
With fish and vegetables, all you need is rice, pasta, or potatoes for a complete meal. Seasoned rice, quinoa stuffed bell peppers, and bang bang pasta are great options. Banana foster, lemon tart, or strawberry shortcake with homemade whipped cream delivers an incredible finish. Wine Pairing: Since rockfish is a little meatier than most, you can get away with a dry rosé. My favorite is Chardonnay, but I bet a good Sauvignon Blanc would be good, too.
More Mouthwatering Fish Recipes to Try
Fish Cakes African Fish Roll Curry Fish Fish Pepper Soup Fish Stew
Conclusion
This baked rockfish recipe is surprisingly easy and undeniably delicious, not to mention economical. What’s recent recipe discovery leaves you in awe? Let me know in the comments!
Watch How to Make It
