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Crisp Lime Brook Trout
© Melanie Acevedo

Crisp Lime Brook Trout

Contributed by Quick From Scratch Fish & Shellfish
  • ACTIVE:
  • TOTAL TIME:
  • SERVINGS: 4
  • FAST

The oil must be really hot when the fish hits the pan for the skin to turn crisp and golden. Shake the pan back and forth on the burner occasionally to keep the trout from sticking to the bottom and tearing the skin.

  1. 1 tablespoon lime juice
  2. 1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
  3. 1 1/8 teaspoons salt
  4. Fresh-ground black pepper
  5. 1/2 cup olive oil
  6. 3 tablespoons cooking oil, plus more if needed
  7. 8 trout fillets (about 2 pounds in all)
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, lime zest, 1/8 teaspoon of the salt, and a pinch of pepper. Add the olive oil slowly, whisking. Heat the oven to 200°. Cover a baking sheet with paper towels.
  2. In a large nonstick frying pan, heat the cooking oil over moderately high heat. Sprinkle the trout with the remaining 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Put half the fillets in the pan, skin-side down, and cook until golden, about 3minutes. Turn and cook until just done, about 1 minute longer. Transfer the fillets to the prepared baking sheet, skin-side up and keep warm in the oven while cooking the remaining fillets. Add more oil between batches if necessary. Serve, skin-side up, surrounded by the lime dressing.
Notes

Fish Alternatives The acidity of the lime juice in the dressing pairs well with a wide range of fish. Try sautéed or grilled kingfish, mackerel, or porgy fillets.

Variation: Crisp Lime Brook Trout with Fresh Herbs: Add 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, parsley, or chives to the dressing.

Suggested Pairing

The tart lime and crisp fish call for a white wine with good acidity. A California or New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc will be good here.