Pan-Seared Fish with Cauliflower Purée & Pea Oil

Pan-Seared Fish with Cauliflower Purée & Pea Oil

This crispy-skin fish is served over a silky cauliflower purée, finished with vibrant pea oil and delicate microgreens for a fresh, elegant touch. 

Light, refined and full of flavour — perfect for when you want dinner to feel a little special. Every element is cooked beautifully in RACO Ceramic Essentials. 

Serves 2 

Ingredients 

  • 2 thick white fish fillets, such as barramundi, snapper or flathead, skin on 
  • 400g cauliflower, cut into florets  
  • 40g unsalted butter  
  • 60ml thickened cream  
  • 100g frozen peas  
  • 60ml extra virgin olive oil  
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil, such as vegetable or avocado oil 
  • 1 tsp salt  
  • ½ tsp white pepper  
  • 1 tbsp microgreens or pea shoots, to garnish  

Method 

  1. Dry the fish: Pat the fish fillets thoroughly dry with paper towel. Season the skin side with salt and white pepper. Leave uncovered in the fridge for 20 minutes if time allows.  

  1. Cook the cauliflower: Boil the cauliflower in well-salted water for 12–14 minutes, or until completely tender. Drain very well.  

  1. Make the purée: Blend the cauliflower with butter and thickened cream until smooth and silky. Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Keep warm.  

  1. Make the pea oil: Blanch the peas in boiling water for 1 minute, then transfer to iced water. Drain and blend with olive oil until smooth. Pass through a fine sieve or muslin cloth, then season lightly with salt.  

  1. Sear the fish: Heat neutral oil in a ceramic frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the fish skin-side down and press gently with a spatula for the first 30 seconds to prevent curling. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes, until the skin is golden and crisp.  

  1. Flip and finish: Flip the fish and cook for 30–60 seconds on the flesh side, or until it flakes easily at the thickest point. Rest for 1 minute.  

  1. Plate and serve: Spoon cauliflower purée onto each plate, drizzle with pea oil, then place the fish skin-side up on top. Finish with microgreens or pea shoots.  

Notes 

Crispy skin tip: Dry skin is essential. Moisture creates steam, which prevents crisping. 

Pea oil shortcut: For a quicker option, blend blanched spinach or basil with olive oil for a similar vibrant green finish. 

Make ahead: The purée and pea oil can both be made a day ahead. Reheat the purée gently with a splash of cream.

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