What fish should I cook tonight?
Standing at the fish counter and wondering what to cook for supper is something most of us have done. Fish cookery often feels like it should be complicated, but in truth many of the best dishes are also the simplest.
Fresh fish needs very little - good ingredients, a hot pan or oven, and a few minutes of attention. Here are a few ideas to get you started, whether you’re looking for something quick after work or something a little more special.
If you want something quick and foolproof: Salmon fillets
Salmon is one of the easiest fish to cook well. Brush the fillets with olive oil, season with salt and pepper and bake in a hot oven for about 12 minutes. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and perhaps a scattering of herbs. It’s simple, reliable and always satisfying.
If you want something light and elegant: Sea bass fillets
Sea bass is beautifully delicate and cooks quickly. Heat a little olive oil in a pan and place the fillets skin-side down. Let the skin crisp gently, then turn briefly to finish. Serve with lemon and a simple green salad.
If you want something comforting: Smoked haddock
Few dishes feel as comforting as smoked haddock gently poached in milk. The fish becomes beautifully tender and the cooking liquor makes a wonderful base for a light sauce. Serve with buttery mashed potatoes and greens.
If you want Mediterranean flavours: Cod
Cod works perfectly with tomatoes, olives and garlic. Place the fish in an oven dish, add a handful of chopped tomatoes, olives, garlic and a generous drizzle of olive oil, then bake until the fish flakes easily. It’s fresh, vibrant and perfect with bread to mop up the juices.
If you want something for sharing: Mussels
A big bowl of mussels is one of the simplest and most sociable dishes you can make. Steam them quickly in white wine with garlic and parsley until they open, then serve straight away with plenty of crusty bread to soak up the broth.
If you want something fun and a little different: Tempura prawns
Lightly battered tempura prawns are crisp, golden and irresistible. Serve them with mayonnaise, soy sauce or sweet chilli dipping sauce for a relaxed starter or sharing dish that disappears very quickly.
If you want something that feels like a restaurant dish: Scallops
Scallops look impressive but are surprisingly simple to cook. Heat a little butter in a hot pan until bubbling, then sear the scallops for about a minute on each side until golden. Serve simply with lemon or a touch of garlic butter and let the natural sweetness of the scallops shine.
Cooking fish doesn’t need to be complicated. Often the best approach is the simplest one - fresh fish, a few good ingredients and confidence will soon build.
And if you’re ever unsure what to cook, just ask at the fish counter. We’re always happy to suggest what’s particularly fresh that day and the easiest way to prepare it.