Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a baking dish with a drizzle of olive oil or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Fish

• Pat the Dover sole fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• Place the fish fillets in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Season the Fish

• In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme.
• Drizzle this mixture evenly over the fish.
• Sprinkle with paprika (if using) for a hint of color.
• Add capers and cherry tomatoes around the fillets for a Mediterranean twist.

Step 4: Bake the Dover Sole

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes (for fillets) or 18-20 minutes (for whole fish).
• The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Broil for a Crispy Finish (Optional)

• If you like a slightly crispy top, switch your oven to broil mode for 1-2 minutes.
• Keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes.
• Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley.
• Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with:

• Roasted vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, bell peppers)
• Lemon-infused quinoa or couscous
• Fresh Mediterranean salad with feta cheese
• Steamed baby potatoes

Wine pairing:

• Serve with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• ❌ Overcooking – Dover sole cooks quickly, so check early!
• ❌ Too much lemon juice before baking – It can make the fish mushy. Instead, add lemon juice after baking.
• ❌ Skipping the olive oil – This helps keep the fish moist and flavorful.

Storage & Leftovers

How to Store:

• Store leftover fish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

How to Reheat:

• Reheat in a low oven (275°F / 135°C) for 8-10 minutes with a splash of lemon juice or olive oil to keep it moist.
• Can You Freeze It?
• Yes! Freeze cooked fish in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• (Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)

FAQs About Baked Dover Sole

• ❓ Can I use frozen Dover sole for this recipe?
• Yes! Just thaw the fillets overnight in the fridge before baking.
• ❓ How do I know when the fish is done?
• It should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
• ❓ What’s the best fish substitute for Dover sole?
• Lemon sole, flounder, or plaice work well as substitutes.
• ❓ Can I make this without an oven?
• Yes! You can pan-sear the fillets in olive oil for 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat.
• ❓ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
• Simply use extra virgin olive oil instead of butter.

Final Thoughts

• This easy baked Dover sole recipe is a must-try if you love light, healthy, and flavorful seafood. It’s quick to make, perfect for meal prep, and brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen!
• Try this recipe today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!