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Lemon Butter Baked Trout: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for Seafood Lovers

Enjoy the deliciousness of Lemon Butter Baked Trout, featuring whole trout baked with a zesty lemon butter sauce, fresh herbs, and garlic. This elegant yet simple dish is perfect for any occasion, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 whole trout, cleaned and scaled
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 lemons, one sliced and one juiced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Fresh lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Rinse the cleaned trout under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Sprinkle salt and pepper inside the cavity of each trout. Optionally, add a pinch of paprika for a subtle kick.
  4. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
  5. Remove the melted butter from heat and stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and dill. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes.
  6. Lightly grease a large baking dish with a bit of the melted butter.
  7. Place the trout in the baking dish, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Tuck any leftover lemon slices inside the cavity of each fish.
  8. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce generously over the trout, reserving a little for serving.
  9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the trout moist while baking.
  10. Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish.
  11. About 5 minutes before the trout is done, remove the foil to allow the top to brown slightly.
  12. Once cooked through, take the trout out of the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
  13. Carefully transfer the trout to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining lemon butter sauce over the top.
  14. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
  15. Serve the lemon butter baked trout with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Freshness matters: Always choose the freshest trout available for the best flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with herbs: Feel free to use other herbs like thyme or tarragon for a different flavor profile.