Discovering the Perfect Wine Pairing for Seafood

The Quest for the Perfect Pairing

Intrigued by the harmonious pairing, I purchased a bottle of Beringer White Zinfandel the next day and began experimenting with various fish dishes. To my delight, the wine consistently enhanced the flavors of each dish. Here are some of the standout recipes that I found to pair exceptionally well with this wine.

Baked Lemon Sole

This healthy dish features baked fish with a light sauce, making it a perfect match for the White Zinfandel.

Ingredients

• 4 sole fillets (3 1/4 oz. each)
• 2 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tsp. margarine, melted
• 1/8 tsp. pepper
• 2 tsp. lemon juice
• 1/8 tsp. paprika
• 2 Tbs. all-purpose flour

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse fillets thoroughly in cold water; pat dry with paper towels.
3. Combine melted margarine and lemon juice in a small bowl.
4. Mix flour, chopped parsley, and pepper in a shallow container.
5. Dip fillets in the margarine mixture and dredge in the flour mixture.
6. Transfer fillets to a nonstick baking sheet and drizzle any remaining margarine mixture over the fish.
7. Sprinkle fillets with paprika.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. For a crisper texture, broil baked fillets 4 inches from heat for 1 minute.
9. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley sprigs if desired.

Shrimp Roll-Ups

These elegant and delicious roll-ups make an excellent appetizer. Prepare them the day before to allow the flavors to meld.

Ingredients

• 2 8 oz. packages cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup cocktail sauce
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 2 cans shrimp, not drained, finely shredded with fingers
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 4-5 green onions, finely chopped
• 6-8 10" flour tortillas
• 1-1 1/2 cups additional cocktail sauce, for dipping

Directions

1. Microwave the cream cheese in a medium glass bowl for 30-45 seconds.
2. Mix the cream cheese, cocktail sauce, and lemon juice until well-blended.
3. Stir in shrimp, mozzarella cheese, celery, and green onions.
4. Spread about 1/2 cup of the mixture onto each tortilla and roll up tightly.
5. Wrap each tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
6. Slice rolls into 1/2" pieces using a serrated knife, wiping often while cutting.
7. Arrange on a serving dish with a bowl of cocktail sauce for dipping.

Grilled Prosciutto and Basil-Wrapped Shrimp

This colorful dish can be served as an appetizer or a full meal.

Ingredients

• 24 fresh basil leaves
• 12 thin slices Prosciutto, each cut in half lengthwise
• 24 extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined, or large sea scallops
• 24 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling

Garlic Dipping Sauce

• 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 Tbs. Dijon mustard
• 1 large clove garlic, chopped
• 1 cup olive oil

Directions

1. Place 1 basil leaf at the short end of a slice of Prosciutto and a shrimp on top of the basil. Roll the shrimp in the Prosciutto, then thread lengthwise onto a skewer. Repeat with the remaining basil, Prosciutto, and shrimp.
2. Place the skewers on a baking sheet and refrigerate until ready to cook.
3. To make the sauce, combine the vinegar, mustard, and garlic in a food processor or blender. With the machine running, add the olive oil in a slow, steady stream. Process until combined.
4. Spoon about 1/3 of the sauce over the shrimp skewers to marinate 10-15 minutes before grilling.
5. Prepare a medium-hot fire in a grill. Grill the shrimp, turning often, until opaque, about 6 minutes.
6. Arrange the cooked skewers on a platter and serve with the dipping sauce on the side.

Conclusion

The next time you're craving seafood, consider pairing it with Beringer White Zinfandel. This wine's subtle flavors enhance a variety of fish dishes, making it a versatile choice for any seafood meal. Have a tasty week!

Interesting Stats

• White Zinfandel: Despite its reputation as a beginner's wine, White Zinfandel accounts for 10% of all wine sales in the United States. Source: Wine Enthusiast
• Seafood Consumption: The average American consumes about 16 pounds of seafood per year, with shrimp being the most popular choice. Source: NOAA Fisheries
• Health Benefits: Fish is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Regular consumption can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 36%. Source: American Heart Association

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