| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 310 | 18g | 3g | 16g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 4g | 2g | 26g | 0.75g |
Why I Love Italian Involtini di Pesce
Involtini di Pesce holds a special place in my heart. In this dish, delicate white fish filets are rolled with a meticulously crafted mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, pine nuts, and raisins, combining to create a flavor profile that is nothing short of magical. As someone who grew up with a love for seafood from the rocky shores of Portland, Maine, this Italian recipe is a refreshing twist on my traditional fare, merging the hearty essence of New England seafood with Mediterranean finesse.
How I Discovered Involtini di Pesce
I first stumbled upon this recipe while watching an episode of Jamie Oliver‘s travel-inspired cooking show. His passion for blending fresh, simple ingredients to create unforgettable meals resonated with me. It was during an episode filmed along the sun-soaked Sicilian coast that I saw him prepare Involtini di Pesce. The dish spoke to me instantly, marrying a light and healthy protein with bold and flavorful accompaniments—a homage to both my roots and my culinary adventures.
A Perfect Match
This dish is similar to other rolled seafood delights like the French Rouget en Croûte or the Spanish Conger Eel in Green Sauce. However, the unique Italian twist of raisins and pine nuts gives Involtini di Pesce an elevated character. I adore serving it with a simple side of steamed asparagus or a fresh arugula salad, dressed lightly in olive oil and lemon juice. The dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, perhaps a Vermentino or a Pinot Grigio, to balance the richness of the fish and the nutty, citrusy stuffing.
Involving my daughters, Erin and Samantha, in preparing this meal has turned it into a beloved family tradition. We often gather in the kitchen, each of us taking turns to toast the pine nuts or zest the lemon, while the warm, inviting aromas fill our home. It’s not just about the eating; it’s about the experience and the memories we create together.
Whether you’re a fan of seafood like me or simply looking to try something new, Involtini di Pesce is a recipe that promises to delight and inspire. Its blend of simple ingredients and complex flavors makes it not only a feast for the palate but also a wonderful story on a plate.
What You’ll Need
- 6 filets of white fish (such as sole or cod), about 6 ounces each
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
- 1/4 cup raisins, soaked in warm water and drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup fish or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
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Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Step Two
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, soaked and drained raisins, minced garlic, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Three
Lay the fish filets flat on a clean surface. Place a generous spoonful of the breadcrumb mixture onto each filet and spread it evenly.
Step Four
Carefully roll up each filet from the short end, securing the stuffing inside, and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step Five
Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top of the rolled fish filets. Then, sprinkle the lemon juice, white wine, fish or vegetable broth, and capers over the filets.
Step Six
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Serve immediately, spooning some of the cooking juices over the top.
