Keto Hake with Caper Butter Sauce, Asparagus, and Silky Cauliflower Mash

Instructions

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   1. Preheat the oven to 220°F / 105°C only for keeping components warm at the end if needed. Cut the cauliflower into florets, trim the woody ends from the asparagus, chop the parsley, drain the capers, mince 2 garlic cloves for the sauce and 2 for the mash, and zest the lemon before squeezing 2 tablespoons of juice.

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   2. Place the cauliflower in a pot with water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to medium heat, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until very tender. Drain thoroughly.

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   3. Meanwhile, pat the hake fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with half of the salt and the black pepper.

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   4. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the asparagus with a pinch of salt and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until tender but still firm. Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook 30 seconds more. Remove and keep warm; if desired, hold in the oven at 220°F / 105°C.

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   5. Transfer the drained cauliflower to a processor or mash it very well. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 minced garlic clove, the nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Blend or mix until silky smooth. Keep warm over very low heat or in the oven at 220°F / 105°C.

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   6. In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil with 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Cook the hake fillets for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side and 2 to 3 minutes on the second side, until they flake easily and reach 145°F / 63°C in the center. Remove carefully and keep warm.

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   7. Lower the heat to medium. In the skillet add the remaining butter, capers, and the remaining garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant but not too browned. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and parsley, and swirl the pan for 30 to 45 seconds to emulsify the sauce.

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   8. To serve, divide the cauliflower mash among plates, add the asparagus on top or alongside, and arrange the hake. Spoon the caper butter sauce over each portion and serve immediately.