AdVivum

🌊 Mediterranean Fish Bake with Creamy “Cloudy” Sauce 🌿🐟

Ingredients:

For the fish & veggies:

2 cod or white fish fillets (tilapia, sea bass, or haddock work too)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 zucchini, sliced

1 small red onion, sliced

¼ cup kalamata olives, halved

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt & pepper to taste

Juice of ½ lemon

For the creamy "cloudy" sauce:

2 tbsp butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tbsp flour

¾ cup milk (or half-and-half for richer sauce)

¼ cup grated Parmesan

1 tbsp cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)

Salt & white pepper to taste

Pinch of nutmeg (optional but gives depth)

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Prepare the creamy sauce:

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Add flour, whisk to form a paste (roux), cook for 1 minute.

Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened.

Stir in Parmesan, cream cheese (if using), and season with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg.

Let it simmer gently until the sauce is creamy and slightly “cloudy” in color. Remove from heat.

3. Arrange the bake:

In the greased dish, layer fish fillets, then scatter tomatoes, zucchini, onion, and olives around.

Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.

Pour the warm creamy sauce evenly over everything.

4. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork and veggies are tender.

5. Optional garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or fresh basil before serving.

🥖 Serving Ideas:

Serve with crusty bread, rice pilaf, or a simple couscous salad.