Mediterranean Baked Haddock with Tomato, Olive, and Caper Crust

Mediterranean Haddock Blossoms (Fiori di Eglefino alla Mediterranea)

A delightful and flavorful second course, Mediterranean Haddock Blossoms blend the delicate taste of haddock with a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired topping of cherry tomatoes, capers, olives, and a touch of Prosecco. This dish is sure to be a hit with seafood lovers and those who appreciate vibrant, simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes: Start by washing and cutting the cherry tomatoes into quarters. Place them in a bowl.

2. Season the Tomatoes: To the tomatoes, add the capers (make sure to desalinate them under running water first). Stir in the fresh thyme, a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and season with freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything well and set aside to marinate.

3. Prepare the Haddock Blossoms: Take the haddock fillets and arrange them in a baking dish or individual cocottes. Pour the Prosecco over the fish, and sprinkle a little extra thyme for added fragrance.

4. Create the Breadcrumb Topping: Tear the stale bread into small pieces and pulse it in a food processor until you achieve a coarse breadcrumb consistency. Once the fish is prepared, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the fillets.

5. Cook the Fish: Place the baking dish or cocottes in the oven and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the haddock is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.

6. Finishing Touches: While the fish is cooking, heat a small amount of extra virgin olive oil in a pan. Toss the breadcrumb mixture in the oil briefly to enhance its flavor. Once the fish is done, remove from the oven.

7. Assemble the Dish: Garnish the fish with the marinated cherry tomatoes, olives, and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately for a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

This Mediterranean Haddock Blossoms recipe combines the soft, flaky texture of haddock with the sharp, tangy flavors of capers and olives, balanced by the sweetness of cherry tomatoes and the subtle effervescence of Prosecco. Perfect for an elegant dinner, this dish brings the best of the Mediterranean to your table in a light, flavorful second course.

Servings: 2
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)
(Note: The nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients used.)

This recipe offers a light yet filling seafood experience, ideal for those seeking healthy, flavorful dishes. Enjoy with a glass of chilled Prosecco for a perfect pairing!