Orata all’Acqua Pazza: A Simple and Delicious Mediterranean Dish
If you’re in the mood for a dish that is both light and packed with flavor, Orata all’Acqua Pazza (translated as “Sea Bream in Crazy Water”) is a fantastic choice. This traditional Italian recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, combining fresh fish with tomatoes, garlic, and a dash of white wine for a dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Let’s dive into this beautiful recipe that highlights the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Orata (Sea Bream) | 2 (approximately 800g each) |
| Cherry Tomatoes | 300g |
| Fresh Parsley | A small bunch |
| Garlic Cloves | 4 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Water | ½ cup |
| White Wine | ½ cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 kcal |
| Protein | ~28g |
| Carbohydrates | ~10g |
| Fat | ~9g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sodium | ~350mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredient quantities and brands used.)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Fish:
Begin by cleaning the sea bream. Remove the scales and trim the side fins. Carefully make a small incision along the belly of the fish, ensuring you don’t damage the flesh inside. Rinse the fish thoroughly under cold water, making sure to remove any residual impurities both on the outside and inside. -
Season the Fish:
After cleaning, take a pinch of salt, a garlic clove, and a couple of parsley leaves, and stuff them inside the fish’s belly. This will infuse the fish with aromatic flavors as it cooks. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Choose a baking dish large enough to comfortably fit both fish. Drizzle the bottom of the dish with two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, making sure the surface is well-coated to prevent the fish from sticking during baking. -
Add the Tomatoes:
Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them into wedges or small cubes, depending on your preference. Scatter the chopped tomatoes evenly in the baking dish around the fish. Add the remaining garlic cloves, which should be sliced into thin pieces. Then, sprinkle the fresh parsley leaves over the top. -
Cooking Liquids:
Pour half a cup of water and half a cup of white wine into the baking dish, ensuring that the fish and vegetables are slightly submerged in the liquid. The combination of wine and water will create a flavorful broth that will help cook the fish while imparting a delicious, rich taste. -
Bake the Fish:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the baking dish in the oven and let the fish cook for around 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of the fish. The sea bream should be tender and fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when the flesh easily flakes when tested with a fork. -
Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Gently place the fish on a serving plate, being careful to remove the skin, which should come off easily after baking. You can discard the garlic cloves and parsley inside the fish at this stage. -
Serve:
To serve, drizzle the cooked tomatoes and the flavorful broth from the baking dish over the fish. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables, a light salad, or crispy bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Tips for the Best Orata all’Acqua Pazza:
- Freshness is Key: The success of this dish depends heavily on the freshness of the fish. Try to source the freshest sea bream possible, ideally from a local fish market.
- Wine Selection: The white wine you choose can significantly impact the flavor of the broth. A dry white wine works best, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Avoid overly sweet wines, as they can overpower the delicate flavors of the fish.
- Season to Taste: The broth from the tomatoes, wine, and water will develop rich flavors as it cooks. Taste it after the fish has finished cooking and adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for a bit of acidity.
- Side Suggestions: This dish is perfect with some roasted potatoes, a simple green salad, or some crusty bread to mop up the delicious juices.
Conclusion:
Orata all’Acqua Pazza is a quintessential Italian dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine right to your table. With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal in no time. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress everyone with its light yet satisfying flavors. So, grab a couple of fresh sea bream, a few ripe tomatoes, and let the Mediterranean magic unfold in your kitchen!
