Parmesan Crusted White Fish with Tomato and Basil

Ingredients

Olive oil

3 tablespoons, divided

Fresh basil

1/2 cup, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Tomatoes

2 cups, diced (preferably ripe and juicy)

Salt

1/2 teaspoon, divided

Black pepper

1/2 teaspoon, divided

Garlic powder

1 teaspoon

Breadcrumbs

1 cup, preferably whole wheat or panko

Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup, grated

White fish fillets

4 (6-ounce) fillets, such as cod, halibut, or tilapia

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Mix well.
3. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture and mix until the ingredients are evenly coated.
4. Dip each fish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well on both sides.
5. Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
7. While the fish is baking, prepare the tomato and basil topping. In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped basil, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Mix well to combine.
8. Once the fish is done baking, serve it topped with the fresh tomato and basil mixture.
9. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor.