Baked Orange Roughy and Rice

This Baked Orange Roughy and Rice recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that brings together tender, flaky fish and flavorful rice in a single baking dish. Orange roughy is a mild, slightly sweet fish that absorbs the flavors of the seasonings and vegetables it is cooked with, creating a delightful blend of taste and texture. Baked alongside aromatic rice seasoned with garlic, onions, and bell peppers, this dish makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, with minimal preparation and clean-up.

Ingredients

• 4 orange roughy fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Prepare the Rice: In the prepared baking dish, add the uncooked rice, sautéed vegetables, and chicken broth. Stir to combine evenly.
4. Season the Fish: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Rub the orange roughy fillets with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the fish. Place the seasoned fillets on top of the rice mixture in the baking dish.
5. Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the rice is tender and fully cooked.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve the Baked Orange Roughy and Rice with additional lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy this easy and healthy meal with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete dinner experience!