Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner, a Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon might be just what you need. This simple recipe combines the mild, flaky texture of Basa fish with a bold kick of spice and the refreshing zest of lemon. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this dish offers the perfect balance of heat and citrusy freshness that will surely impress.

Why Choose Basa for This Spicy Baked Recipe?

Basa is a type of white fish that’s both affordable and widely available. Its mild flavor and tender texture make it ideal for a variety of cooking methods, from grilling to baking. When baked, Basa fillets stay moist and flake easily, making them a perfect choice for a flavorful recipe like this.

Mild Flavor: The subtle taste of Basa is an excellent base for spices and marinades, allowing bold flavors like chili, paprika, and lemon to shine.
Tender Texture: Basa is delicate and flaky, making it a joy to eat and an easy fish to cook with.
Affordable: Compared to other white fish options, Basa is typically more budget-friendly, making it a great option for quick, weeknight dinners.

By combining the fish with a spicy seasoning mix and fresh lemon, you create a deliciously satisfying meal that requires minimal effort.

Ingredients for Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

For this Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients. Here’s what to gather:

Basa fillets – 1 lb (about 4-6 fillets)
Lemon – 1 large (for zest and slices)

Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Paprika – 1 teaspoon (for a smoky flavor)
Cayenne pepper – ½ teaspoon (or more if you like extra heat)

Olive oil – 3 tablespoons (or melted butter)
Salt and pepper – to taste
Chili flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional, for additional heat)

Parsley – chopped, for garnish
Lemon zest – for an added citrus kick

Health Benefits of Basa Fish

Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a moment to discuss why Basa fish is an excellent choice for your diet:

High in Protein: Basa is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, and maintaining healthy muscles.

Low in Fat: Basa is a lean fish, making it a great option for those seeking to reduce their fat intake.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Like many other fish, Basa contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for heart health and reducing inflammation.

Incorporating Basa fillets into your meals offers a tasty way to boost your nutrient intake while keeping the dish light and healthy.

How to Make Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the easy steps to make this delicious Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon.

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A high temperature ensures that your Basa fillets cook quickly, giving them a slightly crispy exterior while maintaining their moist and tender interior.

2. Prepare the Basa Fillets:

Pat the Basa fillets dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing the seasoning to adhere better to the fish. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Make the Spicy Lemon Marinade:

In a small bowl, combine the following ingredients to make a spicy lemon marinade:

Paprika (1 teaspoon) – adds a smoky flavor
Cayenne pepper (½ teaspoon) – for a little heat
Chili flakes (optional, ½ teaspoon) – if you want to turn up the heat even more

Olive oil (3 tablespoons) – to help the spices stick and add richness
Minced garlic (3 cloves) – for aromatic flavor
Lemon zest – for a citrusy boost

Whisk everything together until fully combined, creating a fragrant and zesty marinade.

4. Coat the Fish:

Place the seasoned Basa fillets in a baking dish or on a parchment-lined tray. Drizzle the spicy lemon marinade over the fish, making sure each fillet is coated evenly with the mixture. If you have time, you can let the fish marinate for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Add Lemon Slices:

Cut the remaining lemon into thin slices and arrange the slices on top of the fish fillets. The lemon slices will not only enhance the flavor but also infuse the fish with a refreshing citrusy aroma as it bakes.

6. Bake the Basa Fillets:

Place the baking dish or tray into the preheated oven and bake the fillets for 12-15 minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fillets. Basa is a delicate fish, so check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the fish—if it flakes easily, it’s done. The fish should be opaque and tender.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Once your Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon is done, remove it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the fish immediately with your favorite sides.

What to Serve With Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

While Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate the dish even further. Here are a few options that complement the spice and citrusy flavors:

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are light, healthy options that balance the rich flavors of the fish.

Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy white rice or quinoa can help absorb the spicy lemon sauce and make the meal more filling.
Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier side, roasted baby potatoes or mashed potatoes would pair wonderfully with the spicy, flaky Basa fillets.
Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette or mixed greens can help balance the richness of the fish with some lightness.

Tips for Perfecting Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

To ensure your Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

1. Adjust the Spice Level:

The amount of cayenne pepper and chili flakes in this recipe is adjustable based on your heat preference. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the cayenne pepper or leave out the chili flakes. On the other hand, if you love heat, add a little extra chili powder or even a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

2. Use Fresh Basa Fillets:

For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh Basa fillets when possible. Frozen fillets can work in a pinch, but fresh fillets will yield a better result in terms of both taste and texture.

3. Don’t Overcook the Fish:

Basa is a delicate fish, and overcooking it can cause it to become dry. To avoid this, keep a close eye on the fish in the oven. As soon as it flakes easily with a fork, it’s ready to be served.

4. Experiment with Seasonings:

Feel free to customize the spice mix to suit your personal preferences. Adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a bit of ground cumin can give the dish additional layers of flavor.

Health Benefits of Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

The Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon not only offers bold flavors but also comes packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s what you get from this healthy fish dish:

Lean Protein: Basa is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Like many other fish, Basa provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.
Low in Calories: This dish is low in calories, making it a great option for those trying to maintain or lose weight.
Vitamins and Minerals: Basa is a good source of vitamins such as B12 and D, and minerals like selenium and phosphorus, which are crucial for overall health.

Nutritional Facts of Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional value of Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon. Not only is this dish flavorful, but it’s also packed with essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings from the recipe):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	240 kcal
Protein	28g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	2g
Sodium	380mg
Cholesterol	75mg
Vitamin A	150 IU
Vitamin C	15mg
Calcium	30mg
Iron	1.2mg

Key Highlights:

High in Protein: Each serving provides a generous amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body functions.
Healthy Fats: The fat content comes primarily from the olive oil, which provides a good source of monounsaturated fats—heart-healthy fats that help reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Low Carb: With only 6g of carbs per serving, this dish fits well within a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Rich in Omega-3s: As with most fish, Basa provides omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for reducing inflammation and supporting heart health.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

If you find yourself with leftovers of the Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon, don’t worry! You can store and enjoy it for a few more meals. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

Storing Leftovers:

Cool Down: Let the baked Basa fillets cool to room temperature.

Store Properly: Place the fish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. The lemon flavor may intensify over time, which adds a wonderful tanginess.
Freezing (Optional): If you want to store the fish for longer, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Leftovers:

Microwave: Place the fillets on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. Be careful not to overcook.

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the fish with foil and bake for 10 minutes or until heated through.

Why You Should Try Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon

This Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon is a must-try for anyone who loves a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal. The recipe is:

Easy to Make: With minimal prep and cook time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh lemon brings out the natural sweetness of the Basa fillets, making each bite a burst of flavor.
Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, and experiment with different herbs and seasonings to make the dish your own.

Nutritionally Balanced: With a great mix of lean protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, this dish supports a healthy diet without compromising on taste.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this Spicy Baked Basa Recipe With Lemon is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, delicious, and versatile—what’s not to love?