This Arctic Char with Dill Aioli is a healthy, delicious and fast week night main. Ready in just 10 minutes, you won’t believe how simple it is! First, let’s talk about arctic char and aioli.
What is Arctic Char?
Arctic char is a cold water fish that is low in mercury, and high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids so you can definitely feel good about it! The flesh is pink and the skin is light and edible. Char is in the salmon family but tastes a bit more mild. It is like a cross between salmon and trout. If you haven’t tried it, give it a whirl!
What is Aioli?
Aioli is a creamy sauce with a base of garlic and oil. It usually contains egg or mayonnaise. There are many interpretations so it is quite versatile. Aioli can be used as a dip for french fries, potato wedges, and vegetables. You can use it as a spread on a sandwich, burger or on fish cakes or crab cakes. And of course, on fish like salmon, swordfish or a beautiful piece of arctic char. You can learn all about aioli here Bon Appetit’s What is Aioli, Anyway? OK, let’s get this party started.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
The fish is literally just olive oil spray or a bit of extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. It doesn’t get any easier than this! Note: You can get the arctic char without the skin if you prefer but the skin is thin, edible and full of calcium.
Dill Aioli
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – An everyday light, mild fruity extra virgin olive oil. Avoid oils that are rich, bitter and peppery.
- Garlic – just a bit so that it is not overpowering. You can substitute 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- Egg Yolk
- Greek Yogurt
- Dijon Mustard
- Lemon Juice
- Herbs & Spices – fresh dill (or1/2 teaspoon dried), cayenne pepper (or paprika), salt and black pepper
Preparation
- Whisk all of the aioli ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Coat the fish with cooking spray or extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. In a cast iron or heavy bottomed skillet, heat extra virgin olive oil. Add the char flesh side down. Sear for 3 minutes. Flip and continue cooking 3-4 minutes.
What to Serve with Arctic Char with Dill Aioli
In keeping with this 10 minute fish recipe, one of my favorite fast sides is Seeds of Change (90 second) Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice. They actually make many different rice and quinoa packs. If you have not already, check it out! A quick steamed vegetable like broccoli, zucchini or summer squash. Or pop my Sheet Pan Green Vegetables in the oven before you get started on the char.
Equipment
Victoria Cast Iron Skillet or large heavy bottomed pan.
Small bowl, whisk and spatula.
PrintArctic Char with Dill Aioli
- Total Time: 9 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
This Arctic Char with Dill Aioli is a healthy, delicious and fast week night main. Ready in just 10 minutes, you won’t believe how simple it is!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds arctic char, skin on (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 clove garlic, minced
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Whisk all of the aioli ingredients in a small bowl.
- Coat the fish with cooking spray or extra virgin olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- In a cast iron or heavy bottomed skillet, heat 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil. Add the char flesh side down. Sear for 3 minutes. Flip and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes. Plate and drizzle the aioli over the fish. Enjoy!
Equipment
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
Keywords: Arctic Char, Aioli, Dill Aioli, Pan Seared Fish, Salmon Alternative
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