Plaice Fillet with Parsley Sauce

Plaice Fillet with Parsley Sauce is a classic British dish that combines delicate fish with a creamy herb sauce. This meal is light and fresh, making it perfect for a quick weekday dinner. The soft texture of the plaice pairs perfectly with the rich and velvety sauce. It is a traditional way to enjoy fresh flatfish at home.
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Good reasons to make plaice fillet with parsley sauce

This recipe is very quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients you likely already have. Plaice Fillet with Parsley Sauce offers a great balance of flavours without being too heavy. The thin fillets cook in just a few minutes, which ensures the fish remains juicy and tender. It is a reliable choice when you want a healthy and satisfying meal.

A step-by-step guide to plaice fillet with parsley sauce

Step 1
The sauce: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for one minute to make a paste. Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and thick. Stir in the chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Step 2
The fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with kitchen paper to help them brown. Season both sides with a little salt and pepper. You can also lightly dust them with flour if you prefer a slightly crispier finish. Set them aside while the pan heats up.
Step 3
The frying: Heat a little butter or oil in a large frying pan. Place the fillets in the pan and cook for two minutes on each side. The fish is ready when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Do not overcook them as the fillets are very thin.
Step 4
The serving: Place the cooked fillets onto warm plates. Pour a generous amount of the warm parsley sauce over the fish. Serve immediately with boiled potatoes or seasonal vegetables. This completes your Plaice Fillet with Parsley Sauce perfectly.

Extra tips for plaice fillet with parsley sauce

Always use fresh parsley for the best flavour as dried herbs do not provide the same brightness. If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency. Plaice Fillet with Parsley Sauce is best served immediately because the thin fillets lose heat quickly. You can add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for an extra layer of warmth. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the fish to prevent it from sticking. If you have leftover sauce, it can be kept in the fridge for one day and reheated gently.

Using a non-stick pan will make flipping the delicate fillets much easier.

You can also try these recipes: salmon ceviche, pasta with red pesto or turbot with white wine sauce.

Ingredients

servings
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  • 600 g plaice fillets
  • 50 g butter
  • 50 g plain flour
  • 500 ml milk
  • 1 bunch fresh parsley
  • 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Cooking time

Kitchen tools

Nutrition information

NUTRITIONper serving
  • Energy:1464 kJ / 350 kcal
  • Fat:15 g
  • - of which saturates:9 g
  • Carbohydrates:15 g
  • - of which sugars:6 g
  • Protein:32 g
  • Fibre:1 g
  • Salt:600 mg

People also ask

Plaice Fillet with Parsley Sauce usually takes about 10 minutes to make. The time can vary slightly with the quantity and method. Check the texture towards the end.
Follow the stated timings and temperatures. Stir or turn it only when the method calls for it.
Do not leave it over the heat for too long. Check the texture near the end and adjust the time if needed.
What do you think of this recipe?
4.7 / 5 - (19 ratings)