Aug 28, 2012

Quick Fish Filets in Tomato Sauce

This recipe from economist Nicola Ceteorelli is included in John Donohue's anthology of men who cook at home, Man with a Pan (Algonquin, 2011). A snap to make for an easy weeknight meal, the recipe is also elegant enough to serve on special occasions, especially made with fresh, high-quality tomatoes.
This recipe first appeared in our May 2011 issue, with the article Macho Meals.

Credit: Todd Coleman

SERVES 4

INGREDIENTS

2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
4 (4-oz.) skin-on fish filets, such as bass or snapper
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced lengthwise
1½ lb. cherry tomatoes
2 tbsp. finely chopped parsley

INSTRUCTIONS

Heat oil in a 12" nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season fish with salt and pepper and add to skillet, skin side down. Cook until skin is browned and crisp, about 4 minutes. Remove from skillet; set aside. Add onions to pan; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring, until soft, about 4 minutes. Add tomatoes, cover with lid, and cook until soft and releasing their juices, about 8 minutes. Add fish, skin side up, and cook until done, 3 to 4 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

This article was first published in Saveur in Issue #138

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Ratings & Reviews (3)

by COLEGODVIN on 2011-08-14

This is a great, quick and easy dish. Very tasty. I used regular high lycopene tomatoes (because they are the most flavorful to be had at Trader Joe's) so it got a little soupy since I needed to cut them up -- and I dumped a ton of fish spice in since a little black pepper isn't going to cut it. Came out delicious. A potato dish would be a good side dish.

by MRSSNOW on 2011-10-31

I made this for Sunday dinner this week and it was loved all around. All the flavor in this dish comes from the few ingredients involved. I'm usually very liberal with seasoning (salt and pepper) when I cook, but the olives and red pepper provide all the seasoning you need for this delicate dish.

Also, couldn't find snapper and black cod worked beautifully. Try this dish. It's superb. I'm introducing it to my regular rotation.