Why Make This Recipe

Fish with White Wine Sauce is a delightful dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. The combination of fresh fish and a creamy white wine sauce creates a rich yet light flavor profile. It’s a simple recipe that can impress family and friends, making it perfect for dinner parties or weekend meals. Plus, it’s relatively quick to prepare, meaning you can enjoy a gourmet dining experience without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Fish with White Wine Sauce

Making Fish with White Wine Sauce is straightforward. With just a few key ingredients and easy steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Ingredients

4 x 150g / 5oz white fish fillets (skinless, boneless; snapper works well)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 eschalot (small, finely chopped ~1 1/2 tbsp)
1 1/4 cups white wine (dry, not sweet or too woody; chardonnay is ideal)
1 tsp lemon juice (can substitute with white wine vinegar)
1 tsp white wine vinegar (or substitute with more lemon juice)
1/8 tsp salt
1 pinch pepper
1 pinch white sugar
1 cup thickened/heavy cream
30g / 2 tbsp unsalted butter (cold, cut into 1cm / 1/3" cubes)
2 tsp finely chopped parsley (or chives)

Directions

Cook Fish: Season the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden and cooked through. Once ready, remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
White Wine Sauce: In the same pan, add the chopped eschalot and sauté until soft. Pour in the white wine, lemon juice, and vinegar, then bring to a boil. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and sugar. Then, stir in the cream and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Finally, remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the cold butter until melted. Add the chopped parsley for garnish.

How to Serve Fish with White Wine Sauce

Serve the fish fillets on plates topped with the creamy white wine sauce. You can pair this dish with steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store Fish with White Wine Sauce

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Tips to Make Fish with White Wine Sauce

Make sure not to overcook the fish; it should be tender and flaky.
Use fresh white wine for the best flavor.
Adjust the cream and wine to your taste preferences to create a lighter or richer sauce.

Variation

For a twist, you can add capers or olives to the sauce for a briny flavor that complements the fish beautifully. You could also try different types of fish, such as salmon or cod, for a varied taste experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. This will help ensure even cooking.

What type of white wine should I use?
A dry white wine like Chardonnay is best. Avoid sweet wines for this recipe.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative for a dairy-free version. Just note that this will change the flavor slightly.