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Herb-Stuffed Roasted Arctic Char is an absolute delight for the palate. The delicate, rich flavor of Arctic Char pairs wonderfully with aromatic herbs and zesty lemon. Plus, this is an oven-friendly recipe, so it’s fuss-free!
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Table of contents
Whole Roasted Arctic Char
Herb-Stuffed Roasted Arctic Char is like a love letter to anyone who adores a good fish dish. If you’re looking for something that’s both elegant and packed with flavor, this is your go-to recipe. The Arctic Char itself is a star: a cold-water fish that strikes a delightful balance between salmon and trout. Its flavor is rich but not overwhelming, and its flesh cooks up beautifully flaky, providing an excellent canvas for an array of herbs and spices.
The herb stuffing really elevates this dish from simple to sublime. A medley of rosemary, thyme, and parsley offers a nuanced blend of flavors, infusing the fish from the inside out. Rosemary brings an earthy, pine-like aroma that complements the fatty richness of the char. Thyme contributes subtle, almost minty undertones, while parsley brightens the dish with its fresh, grassy notes. Combine this herbaceous trio with minced garlic, and you’ve got a stuffing that’s aromatic and downright delicious.
What seals the deal is the finishing touch of thinly sliced lemons layered over the top of the fish. As the Arctic Char roasts, the lemon slices partially caramelize, releasing their citrusy oils into the fish and enhancing the flavor of the herbs. The result is a beautifully balanced dish where every element has a role to play. It’s the kind of meal that can make a weeknight feel like a special occasion or elevate a dinner party to the next level. Just add a glass of crisp white wine, and you’re all set for a culinary journey that’s as comforting as it is sophisticated. If you are planning a dinner party with gorgeous roast fish main, check out my easy herb centerpieces to set off your table.
How to Make Herb Stuffed Roasted Arctic Char
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Whole Arctic Char: The star of the show! A freshwater fish that’s similar to salmon but with a lighter flavor. Its natural oiliness absorbs herbs and spices wonderfully.
- Lemons, Thinly Sliced: The citrusy tang brightens up the dish and counters the fatty richness of the char. Lemon slices also help to steam the fish as it cooks, keeping it moist.
- Rosemary, Thyme, and Parsley: This herb trio adds layers of flavor. Rosemary is earthy and aromatic, thyme has subtle, mint-like undertones, and parsley brings a fresh, grassy note. Together, they create an intricate herbal profile that melds beautifully with the char.
- Garlic, Minced: Adds a punch of robust, pungent flavor that complements the herbs and fish. Minced garlic also infuses the olive oil, spreading its flavor more uniformly.
- Olive Oil: Serves as a medium to carry all the other flavors and keeps the fish moist during roasting. Quality olive oil will also add its own nuanced, fruity notes.
- Salt and Pepper: The fundamental seasonings. Salt enhances all the other flavors, making them pop, while pepper adds a tiny kick of heat for complexity.
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, we will use this method:
- Preheat Oven: Get your oven revving at 400°F (200°C).
- Fish Prep: Rinse and pat dry the Arctic Char. Place it in a roasting pan lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Herb Mixture: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Add the chopped leaves of your rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
- Season & Stuff: Rub the herb mixture all over the fish and inside its cavity. Stuff the cavity with the herb sprigs and a few lemon slices.
- Lemony Top: Layer additional lemon slices on top of the fish.
- Season Again: A final sprinkle of salt and pepper won’t hurt!
- Roast: Pop it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary if you like, and it’s ready to serve.
Tips and Tricks to Perfect Roasted Arctic Char
Freshness First: Source the freshest Arctic Char you can find. Fresh fish smells like the sea, not fishy, and the eyes should be clear, not cloudy.
Skin Care: Before roasting, make sure the skin is super dry. This helps it crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Scaling: Double-check to see if all scales are removed. Any left behind will affect the texture.
Score Marks: Make shallow slits on the skin side of the fish. This not only helps with even cooking but also allows flavors to penetrate better.
Season Inside Out: Season the cavity generously to infuse flavor from the inside. You can stuff it with herbs, lemon slices, and garlic for extra oomph.
Oil Up: Rub the fish with a light layer of quality olive oil. This will help keep the fish moist and make the skin crispy.
High Heat: Preheat the oven to at least 400°F (200°C). High heat ensures the skin crisps up without overcooking the flesh.
Time It Right: As a general rule, roast for about 10 minutes per inch of thickness. But always check for doneness. The fish should easily flake, and the internal temperature should be at least 145°F (63°C).
Let It Rest: After removing the fish from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute.
Presentation Matters: Garnish with extra lemon slices and fresh herbs right before serving for that ‘wow’ factor.
Sauce It Up: While the fish is delicious on its own, consider serving it with a light sauce or a side of lemon-butter for added richness.
This dish is perfect when you want something that’s both delicious and a bit on the fancier side. It pairs wonderfully with a light white wine or even a crisp rosé. Enjoy!
FAQs
Yes, as long as you’re using gluten-free ingredients, this recipe should be gluten-free.
Olive oil adds a lovely richness, but you could also use melted butter or even a high-smoke point oil like avocado oil.
If Arctic Char isn’t available, you can use salmon or trout as they have similar textures and flavors. Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness.
Leftover Arctic Char is great in salads or fish tacos. You could also flake it into some scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast.
Absolutely! While rosemary, thyme, and parsley are classic choices, you can also use dill, basil, or even cilantro. Just keep the fish’s flavor in mind; it’s mild, so don’t go overboard with strong herbs like sage.
A garlic press is quick and easy, but a knife works too. Just peel the cloves, give them a good smash to loosen the skin, and then finely chop.
Fresh lemon slices are recommended for better flavor and moisture. Bottled lemon juice can be a bit too tart and lack the natural oils found in lemon skin.
A meat thermometer is your best friend here. The internal temp should reach at least 145°F (63°C). Alternatively, the flesh should easily flake when tested with a fork.
You can prepare and stuff the char ahead of time, but it’s best roasted just before serving to keep the skin crispy.
What to Serve With Arctic Char
Roasted Veggies: Think root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips. Their natural sweetness complements the fish’s rich flavor.
Cilantro Lime Rice: A fresh, zesty side that adds a different kind of brightness to your plate.
Roasted Asparagus: Quick, easy, and elegant. The earthy tones match well with any fish dish.
Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb option that’s rich and creamy, cauliflower mash is a great choice.
Summer Salad: A light salad with leafy greens, nuts, and a simple vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the char.
Steamed Green Beans: Simply seasoned with a touch of garlic or almond slivers, they offer a crisp, healthy contrast.
Quinoa or Farro Salad: These whole grains can soak up any flavorful juices and round out your meal.
Garlic Bread: Sometimes, you just need some good ol’ garlic bread to sop up those delicious fish juices.
Pasta with Light Sauce: A side of angel hair pasta with a light garlic and lemon sauce can pair well without overpowering the fish.
Creamed Spinach: For a touch of indulgence, creamed spinach provides a rich and flavorful contrast.
Herb Stuffed Roasted Arctic Char
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Herb Stuffed Roasted Arctic Char
Ingredients
- 1 Whole Arctic Char, about 2-2.5 pounds
- 2 Lemons, thinly sliced
- 2-3 sprigs of Rosemary
- 2-3 sprigs of Thyme
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- ¼ cup Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Get your oven revving at 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse and pat dry the Arctic Char. Place it in a roasting pan lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Add the chopped leaves of your rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the fish and inside its cavity. Stuff the cavity with the herb sprigs and a few lemon slices.
- Layer additional lemon slices on top of the fish.
- A final sprinkle of salt and pepper won't hurt!
- Pop it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the fish flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprig of rosemary if you like, and it's ready to serve.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
