Grilled Trout with Watercress

Instructions

1. 1

   Pat the trout fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with sea salt and black pepper.

   Tip: Drying the fish ensures a better sear and prevents it from steaming.

2. 2

   Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter foams.

   Tip: Use a combination of butter and oil to prevent the butter from burning at higher temperatures.

3. 3

   Place trout fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes without moving them, until the skin is golden and crispy.

   Tip: Resist the urge to flip or move the fish early to achieve a perfectly crispy exterior.

4. 4

   Carefully flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the flesh side until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.

   Tip: The fish will continue cooking slightly after removal from heat, so avoid overcooking.

5. 5

   In a small skillet, toast the panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until golden, stirring frequently. Set aside.

   Tip: Toast the crumbs separately to prevent them from absorbing moisture from the other ingredients.

6. 6

   In the same small skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter with minced garlic over low heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then add lemon juice and fresh thyme.

   Tip: Keep the heat low to gently infuse the flavors without browning the garlic.

7. 7

   Toss the fresh watercress with half of the lemon butter sauce and arrange on serving plates as a base.

   Tip: The warm sauce will slightly wilt the watercress while maintaining its peppery bite.

8. 8

   Place one trout fillet on top of each watercress portion, skin-side up, and drizzle with the remaining lemon butter sauce.

   Tip: Presenting the crispy skin side up showcases the perfectly cooked exterior.

9. 9

   Sprinkle the toasted panko breadcrumbs over the top of each fillet and garnish with fresh lemon slices and extra thyme sprigs.

   Tip: Add the breadcrumbs just before serving to maintain their crispiness.