Basil Pesto Crusted Skate Recipes

BASIL PESTO

Steps:

• Combine basil, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and olive oil in a food processor. Pulse to combine. Add garlic, pine nuts, salt, and pepper. Pulse until mixture becomes smooth and blended.
• Pour mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap; roll into a tube shape and seal. Store in the refrigerator until needed.

BASIL PESTO

Steps:

• Combine the basil, garlic, and pine nuts in a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Add 1/2 cup of the oil and process until fully incorporated and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
• If using immediately, add all the remaining oil and pulse until smooth. Transfer the pesto to a large serving bowl and mix in the cheese.
• If freezing, transfer to an air-tight container and drizzle remaining oil over the top. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and stir in cheese.

BASIL PESTO CRUSTED SKATE

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place the basil, garlic, walnuts, and 6 tablespoons of olive oil into a food processor and blend until a paste is formed. Transfer to a bowl and stir in the cheese. Cover and refrigerate. Meanwhile, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy frying pan. Wash the skate wings and pat dry. Season the flour with salt and freshly ground black pepper and lightly coat the skate wings on both sides, shaking off any excess. Sear the skate quickly in the frying pan, approximately 1-2 minutes each side, then transfer to a baking tray. Spread the pesto evenly over the skate wings and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the flesh is firm and no longer translucent. Toss the capers in the hot frying pan until crispy and leave to one side. Serve the skate sprinkled with the crispy capers.