Albanian Baked Trout with Walnuts and Lemon
This Albanian Baked Trout with Walnuts and Lemon is a delightful fusion of the rich, nutty flavors of walnuts with the zesty, refreshing taste of lemon, all perfectly complementing the tender, flaky trout. Inspired by the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet, this dish is both nutritious and bursting with flavor.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 4 whole trout, cleaned and gutted approx. 2 pounds or 900 grams
- 1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped approx. 2 ounces or 57 grams
- 2 lemons, one sliced and one juiced juice of one lemon
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 60ml
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped approx. 3.8 grams
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges and additional parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the trout under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season the cavity of each trout with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and lemon juice to create the stuffing mixture.
- Stuff each trout cavity with the walnut mixture and close them up. Place a couple of lemon slices on top of each trout.
- Drizzle the trout with olive oil and season the outside with salt and pepper to taste.
- Arrange the stuffed trout on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the trout flesh flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
Notes
For an extra crispy skin, you can briefly broil the trout for 1-2 minutes after baking.
Always check the internal temperature of the trout with a meat thermometer, which should read 145°F (63°C) when done.
Feel free to substitute walnuts with other nuts like almonds or pine nuts for a different twist.
Serve this dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the Mediterranean dining experience.