Pan-Seared Rockfish Mediterranean Style
Fresh Pacific rockfish meets Mediterranean flavors — olive oil, capers, cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs in a dish that comes together in under 20 minutes.
Mediterranean · Rockfish
Notes before you start
This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish celebrates the mild, slightly sweet flavor of wild Alaskan rockfish with an aromatic tomato sauce featuring olives, capers, and fresh herbs. It's a quick, one-pan meal that's both healthy and satisfying. The firm texture of rockfish holds up beautifully to the bold flavors of the sauce, making this an excellent introduction to this versatile and sustainable species.
10 steps
Pat rockfish fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add fish fillets and sear until golden and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side. The fish should be almost cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely with foil.
In the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
Add red bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add drained diced tomatoes, olives, capers, white wine, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Return fish to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fish is heated through.
Scatter fresh basil and parsley over the dish.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
The Story Behind This Dish
Rockfish represents the diversity of Alaska's marine ecosystem, with over 30 different species swimming in its cold, clean waters. This particular recipe features Pacific rockfish, caught using hook-and-line methods that minimize habitat impact and allow fishermen to target specific species while avoiding unwanted bycatch. The small fishing boats that harvest rockfish are often family-owned operations that have been practicing sustainable fishing for generations. With strict catch limits and careful management, Alaska's rockfish fishery stands as a model of sustainability that ensures these delicious fish will remain abundant for future generations.
A crisp, mineral-driven Albariño or a Mediterranean pale ale with herbal notes complements the bright flavors of this dish.
- ·For rockfish: Pacific cod, halibut, or black cod work well with this sauce
- ·For Kalamata olives: Green olives or a mix of Mediterranean olives
- ·For white wine: Fish stock or chicken broth with a splash of lemon juice
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce actually improves overnight as flavors meld. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
