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FRESH DORADA WITH SAUTÉED ARUGULA – SIMPLE, LIGHT & FLAVORFUL

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FRESH DORADA WITH SAUTÉED ARUGULA – SIMPLE, LIGHT & FLAVORFUL

FRESH DORADA WITH SAUTÉED ARUGULA – SIMPLE, LIGHT & FLAVORFUL

The fresh fish has arrived—long-awaited and ready to shine in this easy yet elegant dish combining crispy pan-seared dorada and garlicky sautéed arugula with a hint of anchovy and chili.

🕒 Prep Time: 10 min

🍳 Cook Time: 20-30 min
🍽️ Servings: 2

Ingredients

For the Dorada:

  • 2 fresh dorada fish
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Thin slices from 1/2 lemon
  • A little oil for cooking

For the Sautéed Arugula:

  • 200 g arugula (or spinach or beet greens)
  • 2 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 1 anchovy fillet, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp chili flakes
  • 1 small cube butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Pat the dorada dry inside and out with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper, then brush with oil.
  2. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until hot.
  3. Place the dorada side by side in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until skin is golden and crispy.
  4. Arrange lemon slices around the fish and transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F). Bake for 10 minutes for small dorada (300-400 g) or 20-25 minutes for larger fish (~500 g).

If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the fish to a baking tray after searing.

  1. Once cooked, transfer the fish and lemon slices to a warm platter and cover to keep warm.
  2. Pour the juices left in the pan onto the stove. Add crushed garlic, chili flakes, and chopped anchovy. Stir and sauté for 30 seconds to release aromas.
  3. Add arugula in batches, sautéing until wilted. Season with salt and pepper during cooking.
  4. When the arugula volume has reduced, add butter and sauté for another minute.
  5. Taste and add lemon juice if more acidity is desired.
  6. Serve the dorada alongside the sautéed arugula and roasted lemon slices.

💡 Tips

  • Dry fish thoroughly for better searing and crisp skin.
  • Use fresh lemon slices to infuse subtle citrus aroma during baking.
  • Anchovy adds umami depth without fishiness.
  • Adjust chili flakes to your preferred heat level.

🍽️ Perfect For

  • Light, healthy dinners
  • Elegant seafood meals at home
  • Quick Mediterranean-style cooking

📝 Final Thoughts

This fresh dorada with garlicky sautéed arugula is a perfect balance of textures and flavors—crispy, tender fish paired with vibrant, spicy greens and bright lemon for a refreshing, wholesome meal.