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Fish

Sicilian Sweet and Sour Fish Recipe

February 4, 2021|By Carolyn Cohen
Sicilian Sweet and Sour Fish - fish recipe by Carolyn Cohen

I make this a lot on Friday nights because it is so easy and delicious. I use snapper or swordfish, but feel free to use any fish you like.

Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • ⅓ cup red or white wine vinegar
  • 3 tbsp honey or date syrup
  • 1½ tsp kosher salt or ¾ tsp sea salt
  • Plenty of freshly ground pepper
  • ½ cup toasted pine nuts
  • ⅓ cup sultana raisins
  • 5 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, peeled, smashed and
  • chopped a little
  • 6 170-g/6-oz portions of fish (I use snapper or
  • swordfish but any fish will do)
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for serving

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 400˚F and have a casserole dish or roasting pan handy that will fit the fish snugly in one layer (I use a 9x13-inch Pyrex).

  2. 2

    In a bowl, mix together the oil, vinegar, honey or date syrup, salt and pepper. Stir in the pine nuts and raisins.

  3. 3

    Distribute the shallots and garlic on the bottom of the casserole dish.

  4. 4

    Drizzle half of the oil mixture onto the bottom of the casserole dish.

  5. 5

    Lay the fish on top. Drizzle the remaining liquid over the fish.

  6. 6

    Cover the dish or pan and bake for 15 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot. Serves 6.

Tips & Storage

How to Store
Fish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Buying Tip
Look for fish that smells fresh (like the ocean, not fishy), has firm flesh, and clear eyes if buying whole. Ask your fishmonger what's freshest that day.
Cooking Tip
Avoid overcooking fish — it should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. Most fish cooks in just 8-10 minutes per inch of thickness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Sicilian Sweet and Sour Fish?

This Sicilian Sweet and Sour Fish recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 13 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.

Can I make this sicilian sweet and sour fish ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.