There’s a certain comfort in hearing the satisfying sear of fish hitting a hot skillet, an invitation to indulge in a delicious homemade meal. I discovered this delightful Fish Florentine recipe on a busy weeknight when I craved something that was both healthy and quick to whip up. The star of this dish is pristine, flaky white fish, perfectly paired with a creamy spinach mixture that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly nutritious.
As I let the fragrance of sautéed garlic and roasted red bell peppers weave through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Not only does this dish come together in just 20 minutes, but it also fits seamlessly into a high-protein and gluten-free diet, making it the ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners. So, if you’re tired of the same old, mundane options and are ready to treat your taste buds to something truly divine, let’s dive into this easy and delectable recipe that guarantees to impress!
Why will you love Fish Florentine?
Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can create a delightful, high-protein meal that rivals any restaurant dish.
Creamy Texture: The combination of cream cheese and half & half provides a luxurious, velvety sauce that complements the fish beautifully.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and rich in protein, this dish aligns perfectly with your health goals.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its stunning presentation and rich flavors make it a sure hit with family and friends, perfect for any dinner gathering.
Versatile Substitutions: Easily swap fish for chicken or shrimp, or experiment with other veggies, allowing for endless variations!
This Fish Florentine is as satisfying as it is nutritious, keeping everyone at the table coming back for seconds.
Fish Florentine Ingredients
For the Fish
• Firm White Fish Fillets – Acts as the protein base of the dish; great choices include grouper, flounder, bass, or halibut.
For the Sauté
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Used for sautéing; adds healthy fats and enhances the flavors of the dish.
• Salted Butter – Enhances the richness of flavors while cooking the fish.
• Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; you can substitute with yellow or orange for variety.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic depth; fresh cloves are preferable for the best flavor.
For the Spinach Mixture
• Fresh Baby Spinach – The main vegetable component that’s crucial for the ‘Florentine’ style; frozen spinach works in a pinch (thaw and drain beforehand).
• 1/3 Less Fat Cream Cheese – Contributes creaminess to the sauce; can swap for Greek yogurt for a tangy taste.
• Half & Half Cream – Helps create a rich, creamy texture; can be replaced with milk or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter option.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Offers a savory, nutty flavor; any hard cheese can be used as a substitute.
• Kosher Salt & Fresh Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste.
This Fish Florentine recipe combines nourishing and flavorful ingredients for a memorable meal!
How to Make Fish Florentine
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Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, add 0.5 tbsp of olive oil and 0.5 tbsp of butter. Warm over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture sizzles.
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Sauté the Base: Add the chopped red bell pepper and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 4 minutes, allowing the bell pepper to soften and the garlic to become aromatic.
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Add Spinach: Toss in the fresh baby spinach, seasoning it with a pinch of kosher salt and fresh black pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted and bright green, stirring frequently.
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Create the Creamy Mixture: Stir in the cream cheese, half & half, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and melted, creating a luxurious, creamy spinach mixture.
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Cook the Fish: In another skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Place the fish in the hot skillet, cooking for 6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes until the fish is golden brown and fully cooked through.
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Serve It Up: On individual plates, spoon the creamy spinach mixture, then top with a perfectly pan-seared fish fillet.
Optional: Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will love how easy it is to prepare this Fish Florentine ahead of time! You can sauté the red bell pepper, garlic, and spinach mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. Additionally, season and prepare the fish fillets up to 3 days ahead; just be sure to keep them covered and refrigerated to ensure they remain moist. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the spinach mixture in a skillet and cook the fish as instructed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious, restaurant-quality results without the hassle, making your weeknight dinners a breeze!
Variations & Substitutions for Fish Florentine
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, making it uniquely yours!
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Chicken Substitute: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of fish for a different protein option. Simply adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re thoroughly cooked.
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Shrimp Delight: Swap the fish for shrimp, providing a delightful seafood twist with a shorter cooking time, just 3-4 minutes per side.
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Creamy Vegan Option: Use tofu and coconut cream in place of the fish and dairy for a plant-based take that’s equally creamy and delicious.
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Veggie Variety: Add a mix of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor and texture.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to spice up your dish, bringing an exciting heat that warms the palate.
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Herb Infusion: Fresh dill or basil can elevate the creamy spinach mixture, adding fragrant layers that compliment the fish beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds sprinkled on top will add lovely crunch and nutty flavor to this dish, enhancing the overall texture.
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Pasta Pairing: For a heartier meal, serve over cooked whole grain pasta, marrying the creamy sauce with satisfying noodles that make every bite divine.
What to Serve with Fish Florentine?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement a creamy, rich Fish Florentine.
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Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of zesty lemon brightens the dish and enhances the flavors of both the fish and creamy spinach.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty side provides a lovely contrast in texture and adds more protein to your meal, making it heartier.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks are perfect for sopping up the creamy spinach sauce, adding a delightful crunch to your meal.
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Steamed Asparagus: The tender-crisp texture of asparagus adds freshness and a slight bitterness, balancing the richness of the Fish Florentine beautifully.
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Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs brings a lightness that pairs nicely with the creamy sauce, creating a satisfying, complete meal.
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Mixed Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette brings a refreshing crunch, contrasting the creamy textures of the main dish while adding vibrant colors to your table.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the fish beautifully, enhancing its flavors without overpowering the dish.
Each pairing offers a unique twist, ensuring every bite of your Fish Florentine is accompanied by flavors that sing together in harmony!
How to Store and Freeze Fish Florentine
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Fridge: Store your Fish Florentine in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat, microwave on medium power for about 3 minutes or until heated thoroughly. Stir gently to revive the creamy sauce after defrosting.
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Keep Fresh: Avoid freezing if using thawed spinach; its texture may not hold up after reheating. Enjoy your delicious Fish Florentine while fresh for the best experience!
Expert Tips for Fish Florentine
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Dry the Fish: Pat the fish fillets dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear, preventing them from steaming instead of browning.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Cook fish in a hot skillet without overcrowding. This allows for even browning, essential for a delicious Fish Florentine.
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Adjust Cooking Times: Cook times vary based on fish thickness. Ensure fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork for perfect results.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Choose fresh garlic and spinach for the best flavor in your creamy spinach mixture, elevating the quality of your Fish Florentine.
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Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add a splash of lemon juice or your favorite herbs for an extra burst of flavor in this dish.
Fish Florentine Recipe FAQs
What type of fish is best for Fish Florentine?
Absolutely! When choosing fish for your Fish Florentine, look for firm white fish fillets like grouper, flounder, bass, or halibut. These types provide a lovely texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy spinach sauce. Just be sure to choose fillets that are fresh and firm to the touch for the best results!
How should I store leftovers of my Fish Florentine?
Very! If you have leftovers, store your Fish Florentine in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep its delightful creaminess, make sure the container is sealed properly to avoid any moisture loss or fridge odors. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just follow the reheating tips below!
Can I freeze Fish Florentine, and if so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze Fish Florentine for up to 3 months. To do this, divide the cooled dish into individual portions and place them in airtight containers. Label them with the date for reference. When you’re ready to enjoy again, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture.
What if my spinach is frozen; can I still make this?
Yes, you can! If you’re using frozen spinach, simply thaw it first and drain any excess moisture to avoid watery cream sauce. This can be a great shortcut when you’re in a pinch! Just remember to give it a quick sauté with the other ingredients to revive its flavor.
Are there any dietary concerns with Fish Florentine?
Of course! As a gluten-free dish, Fish Florentine is a great option for gluten-sensitive diets. However, if you or your guests have dairy allergies, consider substituting the cream cheese and half-and-half with dairy-free alternatives like silken tofu and almond milk. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal!
What should I do if my cream sauce is too thick?
Very! If your cream sauce becomes too thick while cooking, don’t panic! Simply add a splash of broth or water, stirring slowly until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore the creamy texture without losing flavor. Enjoy your creamy Fish Florentine just the way you like it!
Delicious Fish Florentine for a Quick High-Protein Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, add olive oil and butter. Warm over medium heat until melted and sizzling.
- Add the chopped red bell pepper and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 4 minutes.
- Toss in fresh spinach, seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper. Cook until wilted.
- Stir in cream cheese, half & half, and Parmesan cheese until combined and melted.
- In another skillet, heat remaining olive oil and butter. Season fish fillets with salt and pepper.
- Place fish in hot skillet, cooking for 6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes.
- On individual plates, spoon the creamy spinach mixture, then top with the pan-seared fish fillet.