Baked Fish with Shrimp: A Delicious and Easy Seafood Feast

Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make seafood dish? Look no further than baked fish with shrimp! This recipe combines flaky, white fish with succulent shrimp, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly and requires minimal effort. This dish is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, and vegetables. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delectable baked fish and shrimp recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Fish and shrimp are both excellent sources of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. Baking the dish instead of frying keeps it light and healthy.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.
* **Flavorful and Delicious:** The combination of fresh fish, succulent shrimp, and aromatic herbs and spices creates a truly unforgettable flavor experience.
* **Versatile and Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by using different types of fish, shrimp sizes, vegetables, and seasonings.
* **Impressive and Elegant:** This dish is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant dinner parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Fish Fillets:** 1.5-2 pounds of white fish fillets (cod, haddock, tilapia, or halibut work well). Make sure the fillets are skinless and boneless.
* **Shrimp:** 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
* **Olive Oil:** 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil.
* **Garlic:** 4-5 cloves, minced.
* **Lemon:** 1 lemon, juiced and zested.
* **Fresh Herbs:** 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, dill, or chives (or a combination).
* **Spices:** 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, salt and pepper to taste.
* **Optional Vegetables:** 1 cup of chopped bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or asparagus.
* **Optional Breadcrumbs:** 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs for topping (optional).

Equipment You’ll Need

* Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Mixing Bowls: For prepping the shrimp and vegetables.
* Lemon Zester and Juicer.
* Measuring Spoons and Cups.
* Cutting Board and Knife.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect baked fish with shrimp:

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish**

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the fish and shrimp from sticking to the dish.

**Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp**

* In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, the zest of half a lemon, salt, and pepper.
* Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the mixture. This will ensure they are flavorful and cook evenly.

**Step 3: Prepare the Fish**

* Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This will help them brown nicely in the oven.
* Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
* In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
* Pour the lemon-garlic mixture evenly over the fish fillets.

**Step 4: Add the Shrimp and Vegetables (Optional)**

* Arrange the marinated shrimp around the fish fillets in the baking dish.
* If using vegetables, scatter them around the fish and shrimp.

**Step 5: Bake the Fish and Shrimp**

* Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the shrimp is pink and opaque.
* The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fish fillets and the size of the shrimp.
* Check the fish and shrimp periodically to ensure they don’t overcook.

**Step 6: Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)**

* If using panko breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the fish and shrimp during the last 5 minutes of baking.
* This will add a nice crispy texture to the dish.

**Step 7: Garnish and Serve**

* Remove the baking dish from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or chives.
* Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Tips for Perfect Baked Fish with Shrimp

* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Using fresh fish, shrimp, and herbs will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
* **Don’t Overcook the Fish:** Overcooked fish can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish:** Make sure the fish and shrimp are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish to ensure even cooking.
* **Adjust Seasonings to Your Liking:** Feel free to adjust the amount of spices and herbs to your taste preferences.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** For precise cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the fish reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
* **Add a Splash of White Wine:** For extra flavor, add a splash of dry white wine to the baking dish before baking.
* **Marinate the Fish and Shrimp:** Marinating the fish and shrimp for at least 30 minutes before baking will enhance their flavor and tenderness.
* **Broil for Extra Crispiness:** For a crispier topping, broil the dish for a minute or two after baking, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
* **Use Different Types of Seafood:** Experiment with different types of fish, such as salmon or sea bass, or add other seafood like scallops or mussels.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.

Variations and Adaptations

This baked fish and shrimp recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Here are some variations to try:

* **Mediterranean Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Add chopped tomatoes, olives, capers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
* **Lemon Herb Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Use a generous amount of fresh lemon juice and herbs like dill, parsley, and oregano for a bright and refreshing flavor.
* **Spicy Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne pepper, or a squeeze of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
* **Garlic Parmesan Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the fish and shrimp before baking for a cheesy and savory dish.
* **Vegetable-Loaded Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Add a variety of your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, zucchini, asparagus, and broccoli, for a healthy and colorful meal.
* **Creamy Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to the baking dish for a richer and creamier sauce.
* **Coconut Curry Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Use coconut milk, curry powder, ginger, and garlic to create a flavorful coconut curry sauce for the fish and shrimp.
* **Mexican Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Add chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, and a sprinkle of chili powder and cumin for a Mexican-inspired dish.
* **Low-Carb/Keto Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Omit the breadcrumbs and serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb or keto-friendly meal.
* **Gluten-Free Baked Fish with Shrimp:** Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free, especially the breadcrumbs if using them.

Serving Suggestions

Baked fish with shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some suggestions:

* **Rice:** White rice, brown rice, or jasmine rice.
* **Quinoa:** A healthy and protein-rich grain.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
* **Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
* **Potatoes:** Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or scalloped potatoes.
* **Pasta:** Linguine, fettuccine, or angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs.
* **Bread:** Crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the delicious sauce.
* **Lemon Wedges:** For squeezing over the fish and shrimp.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Chopped parsley, dill, or chives for garnish.
* **Sauces:** Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a lemon-dill sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

* **Storage:** Store leftover baked fish with shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the fish. A gentle approach is key to maintaining the fish’s texture and moisture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

* Calories: 350-400
* Protein: 40-45 grams
* Fat: 15-20 grams
* Carbohydrates: 5-10 grams

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving size.*

Conclusion

Baked fish with shrimp is a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flaky fish, succulent shrimp, and flavorful seasonings, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable seafood experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and adaptations to create your own signature baked fish and shrimp dish. Happy cooking!