If you're looking for a surefire way to impress your family or dinner guests with minimal effort, this Golden Baked Walleye is your ticket. It's crispy, flavorful, and lets the delicate taste of the walleye shine through. Perfect for a cozy weeknight or a special occasion alike.
The star here is the walleye fillets, known for their mild, sweet taste and flaky texture. Breadcrumbs provide that satisfying crunch, while grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami-rich depth. Melted butter helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere and adds richness. A sprinkle of salt and black pepper enhances the flavors subtly. Garlic powder offers a hint of savory warmth, and dried dill brings a fresh, slightly tangy note. Lastly, lemon zest brightens up the dish with its citrusy zing.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto. A chilled glass of white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors nicely.
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). You’ll want to get that baking sheet ready too, so line it with parchment paper to keep the fish from sticking. It's a lifesaver when it comes to easy cleanup.
Now, let's get that coating ready. In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried dill, and lemon zest. Give it a good mix so all the components are evenly distributed. This is where all the flavor magic happens.
Take each walleye fillet and dip it into the melted butter. Make sure both sides are well-coated. The butter not only helps the breadcrumb mixture stick but also imparts a lovely richness to the fish.
Next, press each buttered fillet into the breadcrumb mixture. You’ll want to ensure both sides are covered evenly. Don't be shy with the coating; it's what makes the fish golden and crispy.
Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out enough so they bake evenly. Pop them into the preheated oven and let them bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the fish to flake easily with a fork and the crust to turn a beautiful golden brown.
Once they’re done, serve immediately with lemon wedges. The fresh lemon juice adds a nice tang that complements the flavors beautifully.
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