Crispy Cod and Speck Bites with Herb Lemon Zest

Bocconcini di Merluzzo e Speck (Cod and Speck Bites)

Category: Appetizers
Servings: 4

These Bocconcini di Merluzzo e Speck are a delicious and unique appetizer, combining the delicate flavor of cod with the rich, savory taste of speck. Perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party or as a flavorful snack, this dish is both simple to prepare and sure to delight. With a light herb crust, a hint of lemon zest, and a crispy speck wrap, these little bites are a mouthwatering treat that you won’t be able to stop eating. Let’s dive into how to make these crispy, aromatic cod and speck bites!

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Herb Mixture:
   Start by finely chopping the rosemary, parsley, and chives. Combine them in a bowl. Then, add the grated zest of one lemon to the mixture, giving it a fresh, citrusy note that will complement the fish perfectly.

2. Prepare the Cod:
   Take the cod fillet and slice it into bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier to wrap in the speck later.

3. Cook the Cod:
   Heat a small amount of extra virgin olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cod pieces and cook them for about 5 minutes, turning gently to brown each side evenly. Be careful not to overcook the cod, as it can become dry. Season with a pinch of fine salt for flavor. Remove from heat once cooked.

4. Coat the Cod:
   In a shallow dish, spread the breadcrumbs. Gently roll each piece of cooked cod in the breadcrumbs until they are fully coated. This gives them a nice crunch when baking.

5. Wrap with Speck:
   Lay out the slices of speck on a cutting board. Place a piece of the breaded cod at the edge of each slice of speck and roll it up tightly to form a small bundle. Repeat this process with the remaining pieces of cod and speck.

6. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) on static mode. Arrange the speck-wrapped cod bundles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the speck is crispy and golden brown, and the cod is fully cooked.

7. Serve:
   Once the bocconcini are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Place some fresh lettuce leaves on a serving plate, creating a bed for the cod and speck bites. Serve the bites with a small bowl of mayonnaise for dipping.

Serving Suggestion:

These Bocconcini di Merluzzo e Speck are perfect when served with a crisp green salad or as a part of a mixed appetizer platter. They can also be paired with a chilled glass of white wine, enhancing the flavors and offering a refreshing contrast to the rich speck.

Enjoy Your Bocconcini di Merluzzo e Speck:

These flavorful cod and speck bites make an unforgettable appetizer, combining delicate fish with savory, crispy speck, and the fresh, aromatic herbs. Your guests will love the combination of textures and flavors, and you will love how easy they are to prepare. Serve them at your next gathering, and watch as they disappear from the platter in no time!

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):

This recipe is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your appetizer table, with a combination of fresh flavors and rich textures that will have everyone asking for the recipe!