Psari Plaki (Baked Fish) Recipe

Psari Plaki (Baked Fish) – A Delicious Greek Delight

Welcome to the vibrant world of Greek cuisine! Today, we’re going to explore a dish that is not only tasty but also holds a special spot in Greek culture—Psari Plaki, or Baked Fish. This dish reflects the love Greeks have for fresh ingredients, particularly seafood, and is a great representation of their coastal lifestyle.

Psari Plaki is baked fish topped with a flavorful mix of vegetables and herbs, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. This dish is popular in many Greek homes because it’s simple to prepare and full of delicious flavors. It’s often enjoyed during family gatherings, celebrating the rich traditions of sharing meals together.

Ingredients

Feel free to substitute the fish with your favorite type, like tilapia or salmon, and use any vegetables you have on hand!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the pan: In a large baking dish, drizzle some olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Add the vegetables: Layer sliced onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers evenly across the bottom of the dish.
4. Season the fish: Rinse the fish and place it on top of the vegetable layer. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to let the fish brown slightly.
6. Check for doneness: The fish should be flaky and opaque when fully cooked.
7. Serve: Enjoy the Psari Plaki warm, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Freshness matters: Always choose the freshest fish you can find for the best flavor.
• Herbs and spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to customize this dish.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the fish while it’s baking to avoid drying it out.
• Serving suggestions: Pair Psari Plaki with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

FAQs

What type of fish is best for Psari Plaki?

You can use any white fish like cod, sea bass, or even tilapia for this recipe.

Can I make Psari Plaki ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the fish and vegetables ahead of time and bake it just before serving.

How do I know when the fish is done cooking?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque all the way through.

What can I substitute for olive oil?

If you don’t have olive oil, you can use canola oil or avocado oil instead.

Is Psari Plaki gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products.

Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thawed frozen fish, just make sure to pat it dry before cooking.

What should I serve with Psari Plaki?

It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or herbed rice.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include any vegetables you like, such as zucchini or spinach.

How spicy is Psari Plaki?

This dish is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes for a little kick if you like!

How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Is it possible to grill Psari Plaki instead of baking?

Yes, grilling is a great alternative! Just make sure to use a grill pan to prevent the fish from falling apart.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Definitely! Canned tomatoes are a great alternative, especially when fresh tomatoes are out of season.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

While traditional Psari Plaki is made with fish, you can create a vegan version by using tofu or portobello mushrooms as the main ingredient.

Now that you know how to make this delicious Psari Plaki, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy a taste of Greek cuisine right at home!