Name: Grilled Dover Sole in Foil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 tsp lobster base; 2 tbsp butter; 6 dover sole fillets; 1 shallot; ½ red bell pepper; 2 small garlic cloves; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 sprigs Fresh Parsley; ½ tsp Lebanese zaatar; Salt and ground black pepper

This recipe for Grilled Dover Sole in Foil is a delightful seafood dish with a Mediterranean flair. The unique combination of flavors from the lobster base and Lebanese zaatar spices, paired with the fresh Dover Sole, creates a truly memorable meal. This method of grilling seals in the flavors and keeps the fish moist and juicy.

Photos of Grilled Dover Sole in Foil Recipe

All the ingredients required for this recipe should easily be found in a well-stocked supermarket. However, you might want to pay special attention to find the Lebanese zaatar and lobster base. Lebanese zaatar is a Middle Eastern spice blend that includes ingredients like thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds. It may be located in the global or spice aisle. Lobster base, on the other hand, is a concentrated paste that enhances the flavor of seafood dishes.

Ingredients for Grilled Dover Sole in Foil

lobster base: A concentrated paste used to impart a deep, rich lobster flavor to dishes.

butter: Adds richness and helps to balance out the flavors.

dover sole fillets: A tender, delicate, and flavorful type of flatfish.

shallot: Adds a mild and slightly sweet onion flavor.

red bell pepper: Adds color and a slightly sweet, slightly bitter flavor.

garlic cloves: Provides a robust, pungent flavor.

extra virgin olive oil: Used for its fruity, peppery tone to enhance the overall taste.

parsley: A herb that provides a fresh, clean taste.

Lebanese zaatar: A Middle Eastern spice blend that adds a tangy, earthy flavor.

salt and ground black pepper: Seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the other ingredients.

One reader, Jeanette Bohannon says:

The grilled dover sole in foil recipe was a game-changer for my dinner parties! The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the fish turned out incredibly tender. The foil packet method made cleanup a breeze. I can't wait to make this dish again!

Jeanette Bohannon

Key Techniques for Perfectly Grilled Dover Sole

How to prepare the grill: Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.

How to assemble the foil packet: Roll out two sheets of aluminum foil, spoon lobster base in the center, top with butter, place dover sole fillets, add shallot, red bell pepper, and garlic, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with parsley, zaatar, salt, and pepper, then wrap the foil around the mixture and seal tightly.

How to cook the fish in the foil packet: Place the foil packet on the edge of the direct heat zone on the preheated grill and cook until the fish flakes easily with a fork, about 20 minutes. Then, remove the packet from the grill and allow it to cook from the steam for 5 minutes more.

How To Make Grilled Dover Sole in Foil

To make this grilled Dover sole, first coat it with lobster base, butter, spices and wrap in foil. Then, grill until it’s nice and flaky.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tsplobster base,such as Better Than Bouillon ®, or to taste
2tbspbutter
6dover sole fillets
1shallot,minced
½red bell pepper,diced
2small garlic cloves,minced
1tbspextra virgin olive oil,or to taste
3sprigsfresh parsley
½tspLebanese zaatar
salt and ground black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate. Roll out a little more than 1-foot of aluminum foil. Repeat with a second sheet and place it on top of the first.
Spoon lobster base in the center of the foil; top with butter. Place the Dover sole on top of the butter and add shallot, red bell pepper, and garlic.
Drizzle olive oil over garlic layer and top with parsley, zaatar, salt, and pepper. Gently roll fish to mix ingredients. Wrap foil around the mixture and seal tightly.
Place foil packet on the edge of the direct heat zone on the preheated grill; cook until fish flakes easily with a fork for about 20 minutes.
Take packet off the grill and allow to cook from the steam for 5 minutes more.

Nutrition

Calories: 200.58kcal
Fat: 9.51g
Saturated Fat: 3.52g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.58g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.09g
Carbohydrates: 2.98g
Fiber: 0.73g
Sugar: 1.22g
Protein: 24.88g
Cholesterol: 115.28mg
Sodium: 591.43mg
Calcium: 66.20mg
Potassium: 380.75mg
Iron: 0.65mg
Vitamin A: 66.87µg
Vitamin C: 14.42mg

Expert Tip for Achieving Flawless Grilled Dover Sole

When grilling fish, it's important to avoid overcooking as it can make the fish dry and tough. A good technique to ensure your dover sole stays moist and tender is to check its doneness a few minutes before the recommended cooking time. You can do this by carefully opening the foil packet and flaking a small portion of the fish with a fork. If it flakes easily, it's done. If not, reseal the foil and continue grilling, checking every few minutes. This will help you achieve perfectly grilled fish every time.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Grilled Dover Sole in Foil

Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and utensils before you start cooking to save time and avoid last-minute stress.

One-pot meals: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process.

Prep in batches: Chop, dice, and prepare ingredients in large batches, then store them in the fridge or freezer for quick and easy use in future recipes.

Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize time-saving kitchen gadgets such as food processors, blenders, and slow cookers to expedite the cooking process.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe measurements and instructions to avoid mistakes that can lead to time-consuming adjustments.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Dover Sole in Foil Recipe

lobster base - Substitute with fish stock: Fish stock can provide a similar depth of flavor and umami richness to the dish, enhancing the seafood taste without overpowering the delicate sole.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee, a clarified butter, can be used as a substitute for butter to add a rich, nutty flavor to the dish while also providing a high smoke point for grilling.
dover sole fillets - Substitute with flounder fillets: Flounder fillets have a similar delicate texture and mild flavor to dover sole, making them a suitable substitute for this recipe.
shallot - Substitute with red onion: Red onion can be used as a substitute for shallots, providing a slightly stronger flavor and a hint of sweetness to the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, offering a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for garlic cloves, providing a milder, slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for extra virgin olive oil, offering a mild, buttery flavor and a high smoke point for grilling.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can be used as a substitute for parsley, providing a bright, citrusy flavor and a pop of freshness to the dish.
lebanese zaatar - Substitute with sumac and thyme mix: A mix of sumac and thyme can be used as a substitute for Lebanese zaatar, offering a similar tangy, earthy flavor profile to the dish.

Plating Ideas for an Impressive Presentation

Elevate the dover sole: Carefully unwrap the foil packet at the table to release the aromatic steam and reveal the beautifully cooked dover sole.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the grilled dover sole to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Serve on a bed of sautéed vegetables: Present the grilled dover sole on a vibrant and colorful bed of sautéed vegetables, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and asparagus, to add texture and visual appeal.
Drizzle with a lemon-infused olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a high-quality lemon-infused olive oil over the dover sole to enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.
Accompany with a side of roasted potatoes: Serve the grilled dover sole alongside a side of crispy and golden roasted potatoes, adding a comforting and satisfying element to the dish.
Present on a fine china plate: Plate the grilled dover sole on a pristine, elegant fine china plate to showcase the dish's sophistication and elevate the dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Grilling Fish in Foil

Outdoor grill: An outdoor cooking appliance used for grilling food over direct heat. It typically uses charcoal, gas, or electric heat sources.
Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping and covering food during cooking to retain moisture and prevent burning.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Dover Sole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled dover sole in its original foil packet on a baking sheet. If the foil has been discarded, wrap the fish in a new piece of foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is heated through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
For a quicker reheating method, place the dover sole in its foil packet in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is heated through. This method helps to retain the fish's moisture and flavor.
If you prefer a crispy texture, remove the dover sole from the foil and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the fish with a small amount of olive oil or melted butter, and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the fish is heated through. Keep a close eye on the fish to prevent burning.
For a stovetop option, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Remove the dover sole from the foil and place it in the skillet. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the fish is heated through and lightly browned.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be careful not to overcook the dover sole, as it can quickly become dry and rubbery. To add extra flavor and moisture, consider drizzling the fish with a small amount of lemon juice, white wine, or fish stock before reheating.

Fascinating Trivia About Dover Sole

Dover sole is a flatfish that is highly prized for its delicate, sweet flavor and firm texture. It is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. This fish is also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy choice for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Budget-Friendly Grilled Dover Sole in Foil

This grilled dover sole in foil recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of dover sole fillets and lobster base may be slightly pricier, but the dish's overall simplicity and flavor make it a worthwhile investment. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $30-$35. The dish's unique blend of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a solid choice for a special family dinner. I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for its taste, simplicity, and overall appeal.

Is Grilled Dover Sole in Foil Healthy?

The grilled dover sole in foil recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering several nutritional benefits:

Dover sole is a lean fish, low in calories and high in protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair
The recipe includes vegetables like shallots, red bell peppers, and garlic, which offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health
Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that support overall health

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

The recipe calls for butter, which is high in saturated fat. While some saturated fat is okay in moderation, replacing it with more olive oil or a plant-based alternative could be beneficial
The use of lobster base may add extra sodium to the dish. Opting for a low-sodium or homemade version could help reduce the overall salt content

To further enhance the nutritional value of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Increase the amount and variety of vegetables in the dish, such as adding zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or leafy greens like spinach or kale
Use a whole grain or vegetable-based side dish to accompany the fish, such as quinoa, brown rice, or roasted sweet potatoes
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt, such as thyme, oregano, or smoked paprika
Serve the dish with a fresh citrus salad or a side of steamed or grilled vegetables to boost the overall nutrient content of the meal

By making these small adjustments, you can transform this already healthy recipe into an even more nutritious and well-rounded meal that supports your overall health and well-being.

Editor's Take on This Delightful Grilled Dover Sole Recipe

The combination of lobster base, butter, and aromatic vegetables creates a rich and flavorful cooking environment for the delicate dover sole. The use of foil ensures that the fish cooks gently and retains its moisture, while the grill imparts a subtle smokiness. The addition of Lebanese zaatar adds a unique and exotic flavor profile to the dish. Overall, this grilled dover sole in foil recipe is a delightful and elegant way to showcase the delicate flavors of the fish, making it a perfect choice for a special outdoor dining experience.

Enhance Your Grilled Dover Sole in Foil Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with a dollop of butter.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and drizzled with a balsamic glaze.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in a tangy honey mustard glaze, sprinkled with crunchy bacon bits.

Discover Similar Recipes to Grilled Dover Sole in Foil

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate chicken in a zesty lemon herb mixture before grilling for a flavorful and juicy dish.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Combine ripe mango and creamy avocado with fresh herbs and lime juice for a refreshing and colorful salsa.

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Infuse mashed potatoes with the rich and savory flavor of roasted garlic for a comforting and indulgent side dish.

Berry Cobbler: Bake a sweet and tangy berry cobbler with a buttery biscuit topping for a delightful dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Grilled Dover Sole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a rich and flavorful filling. The combination of ingredients creates a delicious bite-sized treat that will leave your guests wanting more.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with a refreshing and colorful appetizer that features the classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. These skewers are not only visually appealing but also bursting with fresh and vibrant flavors.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. A refreshing and light dessert option for any occasion.

Why trust this Grilled Dover Sole in Foil Recipe:

This grilled dover sole recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The use of lobster base and butter infuses the fish with rich, savory notes, while the addition of shallot, red bell pepper, and garlic provides a burst of aromatic freshness. The drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle of Lebanese zaatar further enhance the dish with a hint of Mediterranean flair. With the careful wrapping and grilling process, this recipe ensures a tender, flavorful outcome that's perfect for any seafood enthusiast.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this Grilled Dover Sole in Foil Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

How can I adjust the grilling time if my dover sole fillets are thicker or thinner than the ones in the recipe?

If your dover sole fillets are thicker, you can increase the grilling time by a few minutes, checking for doneness with a fork. For thinner fillets, reduce the grilling time to avoid overcooking the fish.

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of fish such as halibut, snapper, or trout. Just adjust the grilling time based on the thickness of the fillets.

Is there a substitute for lobster base if I don't have it on hand?

If you don't have lobster base, you can use fish stock or clam juice as a substitute to add a depth of seafood flavor to the dish.

Can I prepare the foil packets in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the foil packets in advance, especially if you're planning to grill outdoors. Just make sure to keep them refrigerated until you're ready to grill.

How do I know when the fish is done cooking inside the foil packet?

You can check for doneness by carefully opening the foil packet and testing the fish with a fork. The fish should flake easily and appear opaque when it's fully cooked.