Perch is a popular freshwater fish with a mild, sweet flavor. There are several easy methods for cooking perch fillets to bring out their best flavor. In this article, I will instruct you how to cook perch fillets in 3 different ways.
1. How To Cook Perch in Oven
Ingredients
- 4 perch fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried mustard
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
Pat perch fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides with olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika, dried mustard, crushed red pepper flakes, salt and pepper.
Arrange fillets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until fish flakes easily with a fork. Baking time may vary depending on thickness of fillets.
Remove fillets from oven and transfer to plates. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges. Enjoy this easy oven-baked perch!
2. How To Cook Perch on Stove
Ingredients
- 4 perch fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Pat perch fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with paprika, salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
When oil is hot, add fillets and cook 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned and fish flakes easily. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan.
Remove cooked fillets to a clean plate and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
Serve pan-fried perch fillets hot, garnished with lemon wedges. Enjoy the crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior.
4. How To Cook Perch in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 perch fillets
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Pat perch fillets dry and brush lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
Place fillets in air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding.
Cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking basket halfway through, until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
Remove basket and transfer fillets to a plate. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top.
Serve air fried perch fillets immediately, garnished with lemon wedges. Enjoy the crispy browned exterior and moist interior!
The light flavor of perch makes it perfect for simple preparations to let its delicate taste shine. Oven baking, pan frying or air frying are all easy, delicious ways to cook up tasty perch fillets. Adjust cook times as needed for thicker or thinner fillets.
