Swordfish alla Pizzaiola: A Delightful Italian Seafood Dish
Swordfish alla Pizzaiola is a vibrant and flavorful Italian dish that combines the delicate taste of swordfish with the bold flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and aromatic herbs. This dish is simple yet packed with the essence of Mediterranean ingredients, making it the perfect choice for a satisfying and delicious dinner. Below, we provide you with the detailed ingredients, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions for this delightful recipe.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Swordfish (fresh fillets) | 600g |
| Perini tomatoes | 400g |
| Buffalo mozzarella | 1 ball |
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Oregano | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Salted capers | 15g |
| Black olives | 60g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 5 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Calcium | 150mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Instructions
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Prepare the Mozzarella: Begin by slicing the buffalo mozzarella into thin rounds. Place the slices in a plate to allow any excess liquid to drain off. This step will ensure your dish is not too watery when baked.
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Prepare the Tomatoes: Next, blanch the perini tomatoes by immersing them in boiling water for a few seconds until the skins begin to peel away. Once peeled, carefully remove the seeds and chop the tomatoes into small cubes. Set aside.
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Prepare the Swordfish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish large enough to fit the four swordfish fillets without overlapping, drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Arrange the swordfish fillets in the dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
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Layer the Ingredients: Start by placing a slice or two of mozzarella on top of each swordfish fillet. Follow with the cubed tomatoes, making sure they cover the fillets generously. Season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor.
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Add the Olives and Capers: Scatter the black olives and salted capers over the fish and tomato mixture. Make sure to rinse and squeeze out any excess salt from the capers before adding them to the dish.
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Flavor with Garlic and Oregano: Finely chop the garlic and sprinkle it over the dish, followed by a sprinkle of dried oregano. These ingredients will infuse the swordfish with a fragrant and herbaceous flavor.
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Drizzle with Olive Oil: Pour the remaining 5 tablespoons of olive oil over the entire dish, ensuring the fish and toppings are well-coated.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the swordfish is cooked through and the mozzarella has melted into a creamy, golden layer. The tomatoes should be soft, and the dish should have a beautifully aromatic scent.
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Serve: Once the swordfish is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Serve the Swordfish alla Pizzaiola hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can drizzle a bit of balsamic vinegar over the dish just before serving.
- Make sure to choose fresh, high-quality swordfish fillets for the best results. The fish should be firm, moist, and have a slight sheen.
- If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can lightly sauté the garlic before adding it to the dish.
Swordfish alla Pizzaiola is an excellent choice for a special dinner or a family gathering. The combination of tender swordfish, melty mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, olives, capers, and fragrant oregano creates a dish bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy this classic Italian recipe on your table today!
