Ancient Greek Fish With Coriander

🐟🌿🍽️ Ancient Greek Fish with Coriander 🏛️🇬🇷

What is it?
Ancient Greek Fish with Coriander is a delectable and historically significant dish that showcases the flavors and culinary traditions of ancient Greece. This dish features a succulent fish cooked to perfection, infused with the aromatic essence of coriander, and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices.

History:
This dish is deeply rooted in ancient Greek cuisine, which has had a profound influence on Mediterranean cooking. Greeks have a rich tradition of using fresh ingredients and bold flavors in their dishes. Fish was a staple in their diet due to their proximity to the sea, and coriander was a prized herb in ancient Greece for its aromatic qualities and medicinal properties.

Components:

• Fresh fish (commonly used varieties include sea bass, sea bream, or red snapper)
• Fresh coriander leaves
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic cloves
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a hint of spice

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Fish: Clean and gut the fresh fish, leaving the scales on for added flavor. You can also ask your fishmonger to do this for you.

2. Marinate: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This will be your marinade. Pour it over the fish and ensure it’s evenly coated. Allow the fish to marinate for at least 30 minutes, refrigerated.

3. Preheat Grill or Oven: If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to around 375°F (190°C).

4. Coriander Rub: While the grill or oven is heating, prepare the coriander rub. Blend fresh coriander leaves, a bit more garlic, and olive oil in a food processor until it forms a smooth paste.

5. Grill or Bake: If grilling, place the marinated fish on the grill grates and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and has a nice char. If baking, place the fish in an oven-safe dish and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes until done.

6. Coriander Infusion: During the last few minutes of cooking, spread the coriander paste generously over the fish. This will infuse it with the aromatic coriander flavor.

7. Serve: Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter, and garnish with additional fresh coriander leaves. Add a sprinkle of black pepper and a touch of red pepper flakes if you desire some heat.

8. Enjoy: Serve your Ancient Greek Fish with Coriander hot, accompanied by some crusty bread and a simple Greek salad for an authentic Mediterranean experience.

Time Needed:

• Preparation: 30 minutes (marinating time not included)
• Cooking: 15-20 minutes

This dish is a delightful journey back in time to savor the culinary heritage of ancient Greece, and its combination of fresh fish and fragrant coriander is sure to please your taste buds! 🐟🌿🏺🍋

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Ancient Greek Fish with Coriander:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate, Per Serving):

• Calories: 300-350 calories (varies with fish type and serving size)
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams (mostly healthy fats from olive oil)
• Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams
• Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugar: 1-2 grams
• Sodium: Varies based on added salt

Health Information:

1. Protein-Rich: This dish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health.

2. Healthy Fats: Olive oil, a key component, provides healthy monounsaturated fats that are good for heart health. These fats can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Depending on the type of fish used (e.g., sea bass or sea bream), you can benefit from omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and support for brain health.

4. Low Carbohydrates: This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets or those watching their carb intake.

5. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Coriander adds vitamins (A, K, C) and minerals (potassium, calcium, and iron) to the dish. These nutrients play various roles in overall health.

6. Low Sugar: Ancient Greek Fish with Coriander contains minimal sugar, which is a positive aspect for those managing blood sugar levels.

7. Low Sodium Option: You can control the amount of added salt, making it adaptable for individuals on low-sodium diets.

8. Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Remember that the exact nutritional content can vary based on the type and size of the fish, the amount of olive oil used, and the specific quantities of ingredients. Nonetheless, it’s a generally healthy and nutritious dish, particularly when paired with a balanced Mediterranean diet.

Enjoy your meal with the confidence that you’re savoring a dish that not only delights the palate but also offers nutritional benefits! 🐟🌿🍽️🥗🍋