Classic White Fish in White Wine Sauce

Fish in white wine sauce is a classic recipe that combines the delicate flavors of white fish with the richness of a Chardonnay-infused sauce bursting with herbs, garlic and lemon.

Fish in white wine sauce is a timeless dish that combines the delicate flavors of white fish with the richness of a wine-infused sauce. It's a culinary gem that delights both seafood enthusiasts and wine lovers.

When I first tried fish with wine sauce in one of Montreal's finest French restaurants, I was captivated by the elegance and simplicity of this dish, which highlights the delicate texture and flavor of fish while the white wine sauce adds depth and zest. I felt inspired to take this dish home and adapt it for a weeknight meal for an adventurous home cook!

While there is an array of varieties, the creamy white wine sauce can be effortlessly prepared with minimal ingredients such as white wine (Chardonnay being my preferred choice), butter, lemon, tarragon, garlic, and shallots. If wine isn't an option for you, non-alcoholic options like low sodium chicken broth or stock ensure that anyone can try this delicious sauce without missing out on its flavorsome goodness.

Preparing fish with white wine sauce can be a fun and quick exercise. Be it a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy gathering, this dish serves as an exquisite centerpiece to the dining table, leaving guests utterly impressed.

What’s the best wine for white wine sauce?

When making a fish dish with white wine sauce, selecting the right wine is essential to achieve the perfect balance of flavor. In my experience, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc are the best choices for this wine sauce.

Chardonnay is a versatile option as it carries a full-bodied flavor and has a good balance between acidity and sweetness. It can complement the richness of the fish and the creaminess of the sauce. Opting for an unoaked Chardonnay, which has higher acidity, would be suitable in this case to avoid overpowering the dish. Chardonnay also pairs well with other seafood, making it a great choice for variations of this dish as well.

Pinot Grigio is another excellent choice for white wine sauce. It has a crisp and refreshing taste with a high level of acidity, which helps cut through the rich flavors of the sauce. This wine's lightness allows it to enhance the dish without being overpowering, making it an ideal companion for delicate fish recipes.

Sauvignon Blanc is known for its bright acidity and herbaceous flavor profile. It provides a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the sauce. Its zesty citrus notes can help to enhance the flavor of any white fish, making it a popular option for seafood dishes.

When considering what wine to use for white wine sauce, always pay attention to sweetness and acidity. A wine that's too sweet might not balance well with the other flavors in the sauce, while a wine with too little acidity might make the sauce taste flat. In general, look for a white wine that falls somewhere in the middle of the acidity spectrum and one with a taste profile that complements the fish you're using.

Is white wine sauce alcoholic? 

Yes, white wine sauce does contain alcohol. However, the alcohol content diminishes during the cooking process as the sauce simmers. This leaves behind the aromatic flavors of the wine while reducing the alcoholic potency, making it safe for consumption by most individuals. Nonetheless, those with specific dietary restrictions or concerns should exercise caution or choose non-alcoholic alternatives.

The best fish for white wine sauce

In my experience, the best types of fish to use in a white wine sauce are those with firm, white flesh. Some of my top recommendations include cod, halibut, haddock, and snapper. These options have a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich and silky sauce, allowing the dish's star to shine.

Cod is a great choice because of its firm texture and delicate, sweet taste. It holds its shape well when cooked, making it versatile for various cooking techniques. Conversely, Halibut has a more robust and meaty texture, with a mild flavor that compliments the white wine sauce well.

Haddock is another excellent option with its flaky texture and mild taste, ensuring it won't overpower the sauce. Snapper's firm, yet tender flesh also works well with white wine sauce, and it has a slightly nutty flavor that adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.

Although these white-fleshed fish are my top choices, don't hesitate to venture beyond other seafood options. Salmon, a popular and flavorful fish, can pair quite well with a white wine sauce if cooked just right. And if you're in the mood for something different, seafood like shrimp or scallops could also be incorporated into the dish.

Why You're Going to Love This White Wine Sauce

• Elegant simplicity - this is a recipe to impress guests, or cook for your family on a weeknight!
• Harmonious - the wine sauce brings together a harmonious blend of shallots, garlic, tarragon, and white pepper to complement the fish's natural taste. 
• Gluten Free - no flour-thickened sauces here!
• Versatile - The white wine and lemon juice elevate the flavors of this sauce, complimenting chicken, white fish, scallops, and other seafood.
• One pan - No need to dirty the kitchen; this entire dish comes together in one pan in under 30 minutes!
• Quick and straightforward preparation process that makes it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

• White Fish: The heart of this dish. Use cod, halibut, haddock or snapper for best results. 
• Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
• Shallots: Provide a subtle onion flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with a delightful garlicky aroma.
• Dried Tarragon (or other herbs): Brings a hint of licorice-like flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
• Salt: Enhances the seasoning of the sauce.
• White Pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complements the white wine's flavors.
• White Wine: The star of the sauce, contributing a balanced acidity and delightful taste. We use Chardonnay, but you can also use Sauvignon Blanc or
• Lemon: Provides a refreshing citrus note to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a burst of freshness and color to the finished dish.

Directions for Fish in White Wine Sauce

Cook the white fish

Pat fish dry with a paper towel, and season with salt and pepper. To pan-fry the white fish, start by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, carefully add the white fish fillets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the pan-fried fish from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the white wine sauce

Now, let's make the delicious white wine sauce to complement the pan-fried fish. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced shallots and garlic, cooking them for approximately 3 minutes until the shallots become translucent and fragrant. Stir in the dried tarragon, salt, and white pepper to enhance the flavors.

Add the wine

Time to infuse the sauce with its namesake taste. Increase the heat to medium, then pour in ¼ cup of white wine and the juice of 1 lemon (if you're avoiding wine, use chicken stock here). Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 minute while giving it a good whisk. Once done, remove the skillet from heat, and sprinkle in the fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.

Serve fish in white wine sauce

Finally, to serve this delightful dish, place the pan-fried white fish on a plate and generously pour the aromatic white wine sauce over the fish. Decorate with fresh parsley and a lemon wedge. 

Storage

To store leftover white fish in white wine sauce, transfer it to an airtight container and make sure the fish is fully submerged in the sauce. Refrigerate the container and consume within 2-3 days. Before reheating, gently stir the fish to evenly distribute the sauce and ensure it's heated thoroughly. 

Variations

• For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche after whisking the white wine and lemon juice.
• Top with grated parmesan cheese for more creaminess.
• Experiment with different herbs like dill, chives, or thyme to personalize the sauce's flavor profile.
• To make it spicier, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• For a Mediterranean twist, include pitted olives and capers in the sauce.

Accompanying dishes

Fish in White Wine Sauce pairs perfectly with various side dishes. Consider serving it with Ricotta and asparagus tart for a healthy and vibrant combo. Creamy pasta or this shrimp and tomato pasta to compliment the richness of the sauce. Air Fryer Potatoes for a light side that's ready in minutes. A crisp and refreshing green salad for a light contrast. Garlic sautéed beet greens or sauteed Swiss rainbow chard to add depth and nutrition.

Recipe