Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Oven-Baked Atlantic Bonito
A classic Sicilian main dish, simple and wholesome, where the robust flavour of Atlantic bonito meets a zesty lemon and thyme crumb crust.
📖 What is it
A classic Sicilian main dish, simple and wholesome, where the robust flavour of Atlantic bonito meets a zesty lemon and thyme crumb crust.
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 4 very fresh Atlantic bonito, about 300g each
- ✓ fresh breadcrumbs
- ✓ Trapani sea salt
- ✓ freshly ground black pepper
- ✓ a sprig of fresh thyme (or alternatively oregano)
- ✓ juice of one lemon
- ✓ zest of one unwaxed lemon, finely grated
- ✓ extra virgin Sicilian olive oil
📊 Nutritional Information
Known locally as palàmitu, Atlantic bonito is a beloved blue fish found in Sicilian waters, prized for its firm texture and rich flavour. Its meaty flesh is perfect for baking, especially when paired with a fragrant crumb seasoned with citrus and traditional island herbs that enhance without overpowering.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Clean the bonito by removing the head, guts and central bone, then cut each fish into two fillets.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the fresh breadcrumbs with the thyme leaves or oregano, lemon zest, salt and pepper.
- 3
Drizzle a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil onto a plate and brush it over the bonito fillets, then lightly season with salt.
- 4
Coat the fillets in the aromatic breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crust sticks well.
- 5
Arrange the fillets on a baking tray lightly greased with olive oil, making sure they don’t overlap.
- 6
Whisk together the lemon juice with four times the amount of olive oil to create an emulsion, then drizzle this over the fish.
- 7
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes, adjusting the cooking time depending on the size of the fillets and your preferred browning.
- 8
Serve the bonito warm, with an extra splash of the lemon and oil dressing if you like.
💡 Tips and Variations
💡 For a heartier take, add thinly sliced potatoes beneath the fillets to soak up the cooking juices and layer in extra flavour.
💡 Use Sicilian rustic bread crumbs for a crunchier, more authentic crust.
🔄 Light alternative: swap the breadcrumbs for a dusting of toasted almond flour for a gluten-free, nutty twist.
🔄 For a softer finish, after brushing with oil and lemon, cover the fish with parchment paper for the first 20 minutes of cooking, then uncover and bake for another 10 to allow the crust to crisp.
🧪 Boost the umami by mixing finely chopped Lipari capers into the breadcrumb mix – they add a lovely savoury note.
🧪 For a vegan or gluten-free option, replace the fish fillets with thick slices of aubergine, breaded and baked the same way; the key is gentle heat and slow cooking.
📦 Storage
Store any leftover bonito in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within 24 hours to preserve freshness and flavour.
🍷 Pairing
Sicilian Grillo: a crisp, dry white wine with fresh, aromatic notes to balance the dish’s savouriness and zest.
Inzolia: another Sicilian white with fruity undertones and lively acidity, perfectly complementing the citrusy aroma of the bonito.
Vermentino from Sardinia: a fresh and mineral-driven alternative that lifts the flavours of this blue fish beautifully.
Give this delightful oven-baked Atlantic bonito a go at home — it’s a lovely way to bring a touch of Sicilian sunshine to your table. The crisp, citrusy crumb and tender fish make for a dish that’s both simple and full of character. Perfect for sharing with family or friends over a chilled glass of white wine, it’s sure to become a comforting favourite. Do give it a try, and don’t forget to tell us how you get on!
Rate this recipe
Click or tap the stars to rate
Potrebbero interessarti anche:
-
Crispy Fried Swordfish Balls: A Sicilian Delight Main courses Seafood Main CoursesGolden on the outside, soft and succulent within – these fried swordfish balls make a simple yet irresistible Sicilian starter.
-
Catanese Sardine Fritters: A Scrumptious Dive into Sicilian Flavours Quick Recipes Main courses Seafood Main CoursesMeet the Catanese sardine fritters, a deliciously simple Sicilian classic that comes together quickly. Each bite bursts with rich tradition and authentic taste!
-
Crispy Griddled Calamari: A Taste of the Sea Quick Recipes Main courses Seafood Main CoursesDiscover how to make crispy griddled calamari – a Sicilian classic bursting with tradition and seaside flavours!
-
Oven-Baked King Prawns: A Taste of the Sea on Your Plate Main courses Seafood Main CoursesDiscover this quick and simple recipe for oven-baked king prawns, a fragrant and elegant seafood main that’s sure to impress your guests!
-
Stockfish with Potatoes in White Sauce: A Traditional Messina Favourite Main courses Seafood Main CoursesDiscover the delicate and authentic taste of Messina with this classic stockfish and potatoes recipe, gently infused with bay and lemon.