Fried Fish Filets and Ziti Pasta

Fried fish filets and ziti pasta make for a delightful and satisfying meal, blending the crispy texture of the fish with the comforting, hearty nature of the pasta. This combination offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

Ingredients:

For the Fried Fish Filets:

• 4 fish filets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Ziti:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preparing the Fried Fish Filets:

1. Prep the Fish: Pat the fish filets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Set Up Dredging Station: Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls. Dredge each fish filet first in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
3. Fry the Fish: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the filets and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

Preparing the Ziti:

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the marinara sauce, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Combine and Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the marinara sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving:

Plate a generous portion of ziti alongside a crispy fried fish filet. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge for the fish. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips:

• For a healthier alternative, consider baking the fish filets instead of frying them.
• Experiment with different types of fish and breading options, such as using cornmeal or crushed crackers for added flavor.
• Add a layer of ricotta cheese to the ziti for a creamier texture.

Enjoy your homemade fried fish filets and ziti, a meal that’s sure to impress and satisfy!