Skip to main content

Monkfish Saganaki

3.3

(16)

A taverna standard, saganaki (fried cheese slices) is named for the two-handled pan it's cooked in. Here, the cheese is melted to make a sauce for fish. Chef Costas Spiliades uses a medium-textured feta, such as Mt. Vikos or Dodoni brands, for this dish. He also uses a Greek Chardonnay, Katsaros, which is sold at some U.S. wine shops.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

1 small fennel bulb (sometimes called anise) with fronds
1 (4- to 5-inch-long) fresh red chile, chopped, including seeds
2 scallions, finely chopped
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2/3 cup Chardonnay or other dry white wine
8 (1/4-lb) pieces monkfish fillet (about 1 1/2 inches thick), trimmed of all membranes
1/4 lb feta (preferably Greek), crumbled

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Cut stalks from fennel bulb and reserve 4 fronds for garnish, then discard stalks. Halve bulb lengthwise, core, and thinly slice crosswise.

    Step 2

    Sauté fennel, chile, and scallions in oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until fennel begins to soften, 4 to 5 minutes. Add wine and bring to a boil.

    Step 3

    Season fish with salt and pepper and add to fennel mixture. Cook, covered, over high heat until fish is just cooked through, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove lid and sprinkle feta over fish and cooking liquid, then cook, swirling skillet frequently, just until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy, 1 to 2 minutes (do not let boil). Serve fish immediately, with sauce spooned over it. Garnish with fennel fronds.

Read More
A warmly spiced Ashkenazi charoset, perfect for your Passover seder—or spooned over yogurt the next morning.
Like lemony risotto and tandoori-style cauliflower.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Biscuits and gravy, but make it spring.
Like airy lemon chiffon cake and a Cadbury egg–inspired tart.
Grab your Easter basket and hop in—you’ll want to collect each and every one of these fun and easy Easter recipes.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.