Are you ready to dive into a world of seafood flavors? Look no further than the humble skate. A staple in many coastal cuisines, skate is often overlooked in favor of more glamorous fish. But trust us, this underrated ingredient has got it going on. With its firm texture and mild flavor, skate is the perfect canvas for a variety of bold and delicious sauces.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 savory skate recipes that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. From classic preparations like pan-seared skate with lemon butter sauce to more adventurous options like skate curry with coconut milk, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes will guide you in unlocking the full potential of this incredible ingredient.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the world of savory skate and discover all the mouthwatering possibilities that await!
Pan-Seared Skate Wing with Lemon Butter Sauce
Skate wing, a delicacy often overlooked, becomes a showstopper when seared to perfection and served with a bright and citrusy lemon butter sauce. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate wings (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the skate wings under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and let melt. Sear the skate wings for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove the skate wings from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Stir in lemon juice and white wine (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and let reduce slightly.
6. Serve the pan-seared skate wings with the lemon butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Skate with Garlic and Herb Marinade
This recipe elevates skate to a new level of flavor and tenderness, perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party. With its rich flavor profile and succulent texture, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate fillets (about 1 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the skate fillets to the marinade, making sure they are coated evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the skate from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the skate for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Let the skate rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Crispy Fried Skate with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your seafood game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy fried skate and creamy spicy aioli.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate wings (about 1 lb)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sriracha sauce, 1 tsp lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each skate wing into the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry the skate wings for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the Spicy Aioli, mix together mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Serve the crispy fried skate with a dollop of Spicy Aioli.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skate Wing in Brown Butter and Capers
Skate wing’s delicate flavor shines when paired with the nutty richness of brown butter and the tangy zip of capers. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate wings, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the skate wings with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the skate wings and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, melt the remaining butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
7. Remove the skate wings from the oven and top each wing with a spoonful of brown butter, followed by a sprinkle of capers.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skate Piccata with White Wine Sauce
This elegant Italian-inspired dish showcases the delicate flavor of skate, paired with a rich and creamy white wine sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the skate fillets with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the skate in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the skate to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the skate from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the white wine to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional minute.
8. Serve the skate with the white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baked Skate with Tomatoes and Olives
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of skate with the boldness of tomatoes and olives, creating a dish that’s both simple and impressive. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the skate fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Top each fillet with a slice of tomato, a few olives, and a drizzle of olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skate and Shrimp Stir-Fry with Ginger
A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines skate, shrimp, and ginger for a delicious Asian-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb skate (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the skate pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, until pink and fully cooked.
5. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
6. Return the skate pieces to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skate Cheeks in Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Skate cheeks are a delicacy that deserves to be highlighted with a rich and savory mushroom sauce. This recipe is a perfect way to elevate the flavor of this unique ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate cheeks (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the skate cheeks with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and add Dijon mustard. Stir to combine.
6. Place skate cheeks on top of the mushroom mixture and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Skate Wing Tacos with Lime Slaw
Elevate your taco game with this bold and refreshing recipe that combines the richness of skate wing with a zesty lime slaw. Perfect for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound skate wings, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime Slaw (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced radishes, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add skate wings and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill skate wings for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled skate wing, Lime Slaw, and desired toppings.
Lime Slaw:
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and toss to combine. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skate Meunière with Parsley and Lemon
A classic French dish that elevates the humble skate fish to new heights, this recipe combines the delicate flavor of skate with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of parsley.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season skate fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the skate fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the lemon juice and remaining butter.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skate and Potato Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of tender skate, creamy potatoes, and flavorful vegetables, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb skate fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the skate pieces; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
4. Add the potatoes, broth, milk, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Skate en Papillote with Herbs and Vegetables
This classic French dish showcases the delicate flavor of skate wings wrapped in parchment paper with a flavorful herb and vegetable mixture. The result is a moist, tender fish with a fragrant aroma.
Ingredients:
– 4 skate wings (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together garlic, onion, carrots, celery, thyme, and parsley.
3. Place a skate wing on each of four sheets of parchment paper.
4. Divide the vegetable mixture evenly among the skate wings, placing it on top of the fish.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the parchment paper over the filling, creating a tight seal.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skate Curry with Coconut Milk
A rich and creamy curry dish that pairs perfectly with skate wings. This recipe is a twist on traditional Indian cuisine, using coconut milk to add depth and complexity.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb skate wings, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add skate pieces and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
6. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until skate is cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Skate Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade
A classic Southern delight, this Skate Po’ Boy sandwich is a flavorful twist on the traditional fried fish sandwich. Crispy skate wings are paired with creamy remoulade sauce and served on crispy French bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound skate wings
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 French bread rolls
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dip skate wings in beaten egg and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Fry skate wings for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing fried skate wings on French bread rolls and topping with remoulade sauce.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Skate Ceviche with Citrus Dressing
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing and flavorful Skate Ceviche recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb skate (skate wing or skate fillet), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup citrus dressing (see below)
– 1/2 cup mixed citrus segments (orange, grapefruit, and lemon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Citrus Dressing:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine skate pieces and citrus dressing. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Just before serving, stir in mixed citrus segments.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 0-2 hours (depending on marinating time)
Skate Risotto with Saffron
This creamy risotto dish showcases the tender flavor of skate fish, elevated by the subtle earthiness of saffron. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound skate fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups fish stock, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add skate pieces; cook 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through. Set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add wine (if using), stock, and saffron mixture. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; cover, cooking for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff rice with a fork; stir in cooked skate. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Skate Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy skate tempura recipe, served with a tangy and sweet dipping sauce. This Japanese-inspired dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound skate wing (skate fillets or wings)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Cut the skate into thin strips.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch. Gradually add soda water to form a batter.
3. Dip each skate strip into the batter, coating evenly.
4. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered skate for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil with paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– Mix together:
+ 1/2 cup soy sauce
+ 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
+ 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Skate and Chorizo Stew
Skate and Chorizo Stew Recipe
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the delicate flavor of skate with the spicy kick of chorizo. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound skate fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 Spanish chorizos, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chorizos and cook for 2-3 minutes, until browned.
3. Remove the chorizos and set aside.
4. Add the onions and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onions are translucent.
5. Add the skate pieces to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes, until lightly browned.
6. Add the bell pepper, diced tomatoes, fish stock or water, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
7. Stir in the cooked chorizos and bring the stew to a simmer.
8. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the skate is tender.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge your seafood cravings with these 18 savory skate recipes! From pan-seared delights to crispy fried treats, and from creamy sauces to zesty marinades, we’ve got you covered. Discover new ways to prepare skate wings, cheeks, and more. Try our Pan-Seared Skate Wing with Lemon Butter Sauce, or go bold with Skate Po’ Boy Sandwich with Remoulade. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting chowder or an exotic curry, there’s something for every seafood lover. Explore these recipes and elevate your cooking game!
