Fake Fish Recipe (Pesce Finto) – A Delicious and Creative Antipasto
If you’re looking to surprise your guests with an innovative yet delightful appetizer, the Pesce Finto (Fake Fish) is a perfect choice. This traditional Italian dish is both visually striking and incredibly tasty. Combining tender boiled potatoes and creamy tuna, it is beautifully decorated to resemble a fish, offering a playful twist on the classic antipasto. With the refreshing hints of herbs, citrus, and a touch of pepper, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression at your next dinner party or holiday gathering.
Servings: 6
Category: Antipasti (Appetizer)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 680g |
| Canned Tuna in Oil | 240g |
| Fresh Parsley | To taste |
| Fresh Thyme | To taste |
| Fresh Dill | To taste |
| White Pepper | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Lemon Zest | Half a lemon |
| Pink Peppercorns | 7 grains |
| Black Peppercorns | 3 grains |
| Fresh Thyme (for garnish) | 7 sprigs |
| Olive Oil (Extra Virgin) | To taste |
| Butter | To taste |
Preparation Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by boiling the potatoes with their skins on. Cut them in half to speed up the cooking process. Place them in a pot with cold salted water, and bring the water to a boil. Let the potatoes cook for approximately 12 minutes after the water begins to bubble. Test their tenderness by inserting a toothpick or skewer; the potatoes should be soft.
Step 2: Prepare the Tuna
While the potatoes are cooking, drain the canned tuna thoroughly using a fine mesh sieve. Once drained, transfer the tuna to a blender or food processor. Blend the tuna until it reaches a smooth, almost creamy consistency. This will serve as the base of your “fish.”
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the water and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Peel the potatoes and pass them through a potato ricer or food mill to achieve a smooth, lump-free texture.
Step 4: Combine the Tuna and Potatoes
Add the creamy tuna mixture to the mashed potatoes. Use a spatula to carefully mix the two ingredients until fully incorporated. The result should be a thick, homogeneous mixture.
Step 5: Add Herbs and Flavorings
Finely chop the fresh parsley, thyme, and dill, and add them to the mixture. Grate the zest of half a lemon and stir it into the blend to provide a burst of citrus freshness. Season the mixture with salt and white pepper according to your taste. Mix thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
Step 6: Shape the Fake Fish
To shape your pesce finto, take a fish-shaped mold or a simple baking dish, and lightly grease it with olive oil using a brush or a spoon. Spoon the tuna-potato mixture into the mold, pressing it down gently to remove air pockets. Smooth the surface with a spatula to create a flat, even top.
Step 7: Chill the Fish
Cover the mold with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the dish to firm up, making it easier to slice when served.
Step 8: Prepare the Garnish
While the “fish” chills in the fridge, prepare the garnish to decorate your creation. Peel and thinly slice one potato. Lay the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake in the oven at the highest setting for 7-8 minutes or until the slices are golden and crispy.
Step 9: Assemble the Presentation
Once the fake fish has chilled, carefully remove it from the mold and place it on a serving platter. Before serving, arrange fresh baby lettuce (songino) on the platter as a base for the fish. Begin decorating the fake fish by placing pink peppercorns to form the “mouth” and black peppercorns for the “eye.” Use the sprigs of thyme to outline the “head” and “tail” of the fish, creating an elegant and lifelike decoration.
Step 10: Serve and Delight
Your Pesce Finto is now ready to be served. The combination of creamy tuna and mashed potatoes, paired with the aromatic herbs and zesty lemon, creates a refreshing and visually stunning antipasto that will surely wow your guests.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
| Sugars | 2g |
Final Thoughts
The Pesce Finto is a fantastic dish for any occasion. It combines simple, wholesome ingredients with creativity and attention to detail. The soft texture of the mashed potatoes and the richness of the tuna make for a delectable bite, while the refreshing herbs and lemon zest provide a perfect balance of flavors. Its unique presentation, resembling a fish, adds a playful touch to your table and makes it an unforgettable dish to serve at your next gathering.
At Love With Recipes, we encourage you to experiment with different herbs or even add some olives or capers for extra flavor. This versatile dish can be customized to suit your taste, while still maintaining its signature charm.
Enjoy your Pesce Finto and let it take center stage as the star of your next antipasto platter!
