Sea Bass with Lentils, Tomatoes and Asparagus

I realized recently that although I eat meat and fish, very few of my recipes feature these ingredients. For one thing, I don’t eat it often. Secondly, when I do eat it, I eat it fairly simply. A little olive oil, salt, pepper, fresh herbs and lemon juice is all I need to brighten up a fresh piece of fish or good quality meats. I don’t like to mask the natural flavours of the protein, rather I look to enhance it. With that said, I have made a goal to start experimenting with different crusts, sauces and sides to spice up my simple protein recipes. I think its important as a cook to constantly challenge your skills and taste buds to open your world to a whole new flavour experience.

I know that many of my followers are vegetarian and vegan. I have been very open with my views on eating animal products. Eating organic grass fed beef and free range chicken works for me physically and mentally. However if this does NOT work for you, then that’s OK too. At the end of the day, the most important thing is to do what works for your mind and body. As always, all meat recipes can be swapped with your favourite vegetarian protein such as tofu, tempeh, beans etc..If your someone who does eat meat and isn’t sure where to find grass fed or free range meats take a look online! Many local farms are offering delivery services to surrounding areas for those of you looking for quality meats. You can even go to the farms and see their process so you feel 100% comfortable and satisfied with the product you receive.

Now for the recipe… This sea bass recipe can be swapped with any of your favourite white fish. It is so quick and easy to put together and leaves you feeling light yet satisfied! This recipe is for 1 serving. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of people your serving! Hope you love it.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup sweet onion, sliced
• the tops of 5 asparagus spears
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced lengthwise
• 1/2 cup cooked green lentils
• 1/2 cup kale, thinly chopped
• 1 tsp fresh dill
• 1 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice,
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 6 ounce piece of sea bass or fish of choice
• salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 450 F.

2. In a medium skillet, heat half of the olive oil on medium heat. Add your onions, asparagus and cherry tomatoes. Allow to cook for 7-10 minutes until the asparagus is cooked through and the tomatoes begin to burst.

3. On a small baking tray, coat your fish in remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on top of thyme. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until opaque.

4. Add cooked lentils and kale to the onion mixture. Allow to cook for 2-3 minutes then add fresh dill, lemon juice and zest. Put the heat to a simmer.

5. Once the fish has finished cooking. Place lentil mixture on the bottom of a plate or shallow bowl. Place fish directly on top (without the thyme) and sprinkle with more fresh lemon juice, zest, dill and thyme if desired. Bon appetit!