| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 375 | 23g | 5g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 7g | 35g | 0.7g |
The Avocado Leaf Wrapped Fish captures my heart in all its complex simplicity. A confluence of bold flavors and vibrant colors, the dish impresses both the senses and the palate. The harmonious blend of ingredients in this recipe marry together to produce a dish that is nutritionally rich and aesthetically enticing. There’s something about that lustrous fish bundled in broad, fresh avocado leaves that brings back vivid memories of lazy Sunday afternoons spent by the bayou, being regaled with tales of my French ancestry.
A Taste of Adventure
As a Louisiana native, I find the timeless charm of our Creole traditions reflected in this recipe. However, the Avocado Leaf Wrapped Fish does manage to surprise my Culinary senses every time, much like a classic French éclair; it seems familiar and yet manages to offer a new layer of pleasure with every encounter. If you are a fan of En Papillote – the French technique of cooking in parchment paper – you’d welcome this zestier, healthier rendition with open arms.
The Health Buff’s Delight
There is no denying that fish is a wholesome food, offering a substantial amount of lean protein and healthy fats. Fish is also an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids which are known to benefit heart health. Add to this, the fresh burst of flavors from lime, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and a triad of vibrancy; thinly sliced onions, bell peppers, and ripe avocados, and you are looking an antioxidant rich, vitamin-packed robust meal. Let’s not forget the goodness of olive oil, a well-known healthy fat that’s good for heart health, too.
The thoughtful addition of ripe avocados not just enriches the plate with a pleasing palette but also introduces vital nutrients such as potassium, fiber, and healthy fats. Studies have linked eating avocados to reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Complementary Flavors
The Avocado Leaf Wrapped Fish is splendid as a stand-alone dish. However, I can certainly attest that it marries well with a simple side salad of butter lettuce and cherry tomatoes. If you desire a heartier accompaniment, a rustic Red Beans and Rice dish, a staple in any Louisiana menu, will harmonize seamlessly with the robust flavors of the fish. The mild heat in the dish is perfectly assuaged by a chilled glass of white wine.
In the end, this recipe embodies the best from both worlds, a subtle nod to my Creole roots and a tasteful tribute to my French lineage.
What You’ll Need
- 6 fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
- 18 large, fresh avocado leaves (3 per fish)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 3 limes
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 large bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 3 ripe avocados, sliced
- 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, for garnishing
Method
Step One
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Take your fish fillets and season them with salt, pepper, minced garlic, ground cumin, and chili powder on both sides. Then drizzle the olive oil and lime juice over the seasoned fillets.
Step Two
Take three avocado leaves for each fish fillet. Lay them out flat and place your fillet in the center. Carefully wrap the leaves around the fish fillet, making sure to cover it completely.
Step Three
Arrange the wrapped fish on a baking sheet. Scatter the sliced onion and bell peppers around the fish, then drizzle them with a bit more olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired.
Step Four
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step Five
While the fish is baking, slice your avocados thinly. After removing the baking sheet from the oven, let the fish rest for a few minutes before unwrapping the avocado leaves.
Step Six
When you’re ready to serve, top your fish fillets with the baked vegetables, fresh avocado slices, and a generous bunch of fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy this unique and flavorful dish!
