Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven temperature to 218°C (425°F) before beginning. This temperature is ideal for creating a golden, flaky texture for baked steelhead trout. Before baking, line your sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This method will streamline the cleaning routine and minimize the chances of food adhering to the surface.
Prepare the Trout Fillet: Place the steelhead trout fillet on the prepared baking sheet, with the skin facing downward if using fillets that have skin. Use paper towels to gently blot the fillet dry, which will help the seasonings adhere more effectively to the fish.
Season the Fish: Drizzle olive oil over the trout, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Distribute a mixture of kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and Italian herbs evenly across the top. The olive oil helps the seasoning adhere and enhances the trout’s natural flavor.
Add Aromatics: Evenly distribute the minced garlic across the top of the fillet for a bold, aromatic flavor. Arrange lemon slices on top, overlapping slightly to cover the fish. If using capers, scatter them for a salty, tangy touch.
Bake to Perfection: Position the tray in the middle of the oven and cook for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. To test if the fillet is ready, gently push a fork into its thickest section. The fish should separate into flakes with ease, indicating it's cooked properly.To achieve greater accuracy, utilize a culinary thermometer to verify that the core temperature reaches 63°C (145°F).
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: As the fish cooks in the oven, prepare the sauce by gently heating butter in a small pot on medium. Incorporate grated lemon peel and finely chopped garlic, cooking until aromatic, which typically takes about 60 seconds. Remove the pot from the stove and incorporate a small amount of fresh lemon juice to create a zesty flavor profile.
Serve and Garnish: Once baked, drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the fish. Improve the dish's visual appeal and flavor by garnishing with finely chopped fresh parsley or dill. Enjoy the meal right away alongside your preferred accompaniments.