Sun‑dried tomatoes elevate Greek-style fish to festive delight
Greek-style fish is a dish cherished for its simplicity and the ease of preparation in advance. However, its flavour is often overshadowed by the sauce or spices, which can mask the fish's distinct qualities. To prevent this and enhance the fish's tenderness, I always include one ingredient that imparts a unique character to the dish.
Greek-style fish is a classic served on Christmas Eve. The combination of fish and vegetables in an aromatic tomato sauce has dedicated fans, but there is a way to deepen the flavour of this traditional dish. The secret lies in one simple yet highly effective addition that will surprise everyone at the table.
The secret to the flavour – sun-dried tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are the ingredient that gives Greek-style fish a new dimension. Just a few chopped pieces are enough for the sauce to gain depth and a pleasant sweetness, perfectly complementing the vegetables and fish. Sun-dried tomatoes also add a slight acidity, making the dish more expressive and less predictable.
Sun-dried tomatoes are a source of natural flavours that wonderfully enrich classic recipes. Their intensity can balance the taste of sweet carrots, tangy onions, and tomato sauce. Additionally, they pair well with many types of fish, from delicate cod to more robust salmon.
Recipe for Greek-style fish with sun-dried tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are an understated addition that can transform the taste of traditional Greek-style fish. If you want to surprise guests during a holiday dinner, try this modification—they're sure to be delighted.
Ingredients:
- 450g fish fillets (e.g., cod),
- 2 carrots,
- 1 parsley root,
- 1 small celery root,
- 1 onion,
- 4 sun-dried tomatoes,
- 400ml tomato purée,
- 2 tablespoons oil,
- Salt and pepper to taste,
- Flour for coating the fish,
- Olive oil for frying.
Preparation:
- Cut the fish into portions, season with salt and pepper, coat in flour, and fry in heated olive oil until lightly browned.
- Grate the vegetables and chop the onion, fry the onion in oil, add the grated vegetables, sauté until soft, then pour in the tomato purée and season to taste.
- Cut the sun-dried tomatoes into strips and add them to the sauce, mix everything and simmer briefly.
- In a baking dish, layer the fish and vegetables with the sauce, and refrigerate to allow the flavours to meld.
Alternative additions to Greek-style fish
While sun-dried tomatoes are an excellent choice, it's worth remembering that Greek-style fish also allows for other culinary experiments. If you're seeking new flavours, you can try adding olives—both black and green—which will bring a bold Mediterranean accent. Another intriguing option is to include a touch of capers, whose slightly salty and sour flavour will perfectly highlight the delicacy of the fish. For those who enjoy nutty notes, a fascinating option could be pine nuts or toasted almonds, which will add extra crunch and a unique aroma to the dish.
