A delightful baked fish dish with a creamy lemon herb topping, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the right texture.
Cut the fish fillets into serving-sized portions.
Cutting the fish into even portions helps them cook uniformly.
In a small bowl, mix the water, juice of the lemon, salt, and black pepper.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor significantly.
Brush the marinade over both sides of the fish fillets.
Ensure the fish is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Place the fish in a lightly greased baking dish and bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Check the fish for doneness by gently pressing with a fork.
While the fish is baking, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
Mix thoroughly to ensure a consistent flavor.
Once the fish is cooked, spoon the sour cream mixture evenly over the fillets.
Spread the topping evenly for a uniform taste.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the topping and bake for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Keep an eye on the cheese to prevent over-browning.
Serve the fish hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.