Ginger and Cilantro Baked Tilapia

This extra-simple, extra-fast recipe delivers huge flavor in a foolproof package.  This dish is so convenient for those last-minute meals, fish cooks so fast.  Great for a busy evening after work. It pleases with the pungent, aromatic flavors of cilantro, ginger, and sesame.

It's sweet and spicy, salty from the soy sauce and melting in the middle. It's certainly not the prettiest dish, but it's oh-so-fast, oh-so-easy, and oh-so-good.

Any thin fish fillet would do as well; tilapia isn't your only option.

Recipe, serves 2

1 pound domestically farmed tilapia fillets
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
3 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
1 inch fresh ginger, grated, about 1 tablespoon
1 jalapeño pepper, roughly chopped (optional)
1/3 cup roughly chopped cilantro leaves
1/4 cup white wine
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Scallions, chopped for garnish
Extra cilantro, to garnish

Heat the oven to 475°F. Pat the fish dry, season lightly with salt and pepper, and lay in a 9x9-inch or 8x8-inch ceramic or glass baking dish.

Put the garlic, grated ginger, chopped jalapeño, and cilantro in a small food processor with the white wine, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whir until blended. (Alternately, you can finely chop or mash the aromatics in a mortar and pestle, then whisk together with the liquid ingredients.)

Pour the sauce over the fish, rubbing it in a little. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily and is cooked through. It will be very moist and even a little gelatinous, still.

Serve immediately over brown rice or orzo, garnished with the additional scallions and cilantro.