Shpata me Patate (Albanian Swordfish with Potatoes)
A flavorful and satisfying dish from the Albanian coast, featuring tender swordfish steaks baked or pan-seared with thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and aromatic herbs. This dish highlights the fresh seafood and simple, wholesome ingredients characteristic of Albanian coastal cuisine.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 x 200g Swordfish steaks(about 1.5 cm thick)
- 500 g Potatoes(thinly sliced)
- 1 large Onion(thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(thinly sliced)
- 3 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 150 ml Dry white wine
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 0.5 Lemon(for juice and zest (optional))
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). If pan-searing, prepare a large oven-safe skillet.
- 2
In a large bowl, toss the sliced potatoes and onions with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- 3
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and lightly golden. If pan-searing, sauté the potatoes and onions in olive oil until tender and slightly browned.
- 4
While the potatoes are cooking, season the swordfish steaks with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the swordfish for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown but not fully cooked through.
- 5
Add the sliced garlic to the pan with the potatoes and onions (or to the skillet if pan-searing) and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute.
- 6
Nestle the seared swordfish steaks among the potatoes and onions. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the lemon juice (if using). Cover the dish or skillet and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until the swordfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- 7
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and lemon zest (if using) before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the swordfish is fresh for the best flavor.
- ✓Do not overcook the swordfish, as it can become dry.
- ✓Serve with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables.
🔄 Variations
- Add cherry tomatoes or olives to the potato mixture.
- Use other firm white fish like cod or sea bass if swordfish is unavailable.