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Summer Flounder
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Summer Flounder

Paralichthys dentatus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Summer flounder, also known as fluke, is a flatfish known for its mild flavor and delicate texture. It is a rich source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers.

Scientific NameParalichthys dentatus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories91 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total21.5g
Protein
20g(93%)
Fats
1.5g(7%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

High in protein, summer flounder supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it promotes heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and selenium, which are vital for energy metabolism and immune function.
Low in calories and fat, it is suitable for weight management and can be included in various healthy diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain trace amounts of mercury; pregnant women and young children should limit consumption.
!Allergic reactions can occur in individuals sensitive to fish; caution is advised.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed grilled, baked, or pan-seared to preserve its delicate flavor. Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fillets that are moist and have a fresh, ocean-like smell. Look for clear eyes and bright skin.

How to Store

Store fresh fillets in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days. For longer storage, freeze them.

Myths vs Realities

MythAll fish are high in mercury.+
RealityNot all fish contain high levels of mercury; species like summer flounder are generally safe in moderation.
MythFish is not a good source of protein.+
RealityFish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, often higher than meat.
MythYou can't eat fish if you're allergic to shellfish.+
RealityFish and shellfish allergies are different; some people can eat fish without issues.

Healthy Recipes

Lemon Herb Grilled Summer Flounder

A light and zesty grilled summer flounder dish, marinated in fresh herbs and lemon juice for a refreshing summer meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Marinate the summer flounder fillets in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill the fillets over medium heat for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Baked Summer Flounder with Tomato Basil Salsa

Oven-baked summer flounder topped with a fresh tomato and basil salsa, perfect for a healthy dinner option.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Place the summer flounder fillets on a baking sheet and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Mix the tomatoes, basil, and balsamic vinegar in a bowl and spoon over the fish. Bake for 15-20 minutes.

Summer Flounder Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce

Delicious summer flounder tacos topped with a creamy avocado lime sauce, perfect for a healthy twist on taco night.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the summer flounder in a skillet over medium heat until flaky, about 4-5 minutes per side.
  2. 2. In a blender, combine avocado, lime juice, Greek yogurt, cumin, and salt to create the sauce.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing flounder in tortillas and drizzling with avocado lime sauce.

Coconut Curry Summer Flounder

A flavorful coconut curry dish featuring summer flounder, served with steamed vegetables for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté mixed vegetables until tender.
  2. 2. Add coconut milk and red curry paste, stirring until combined.
  3. 3. Gently add the summer flounder fillets and simmer for 10 minutes until cooked through.

Quinoa and Summer Flounder Salad

A nutritious salad combining protein-rich quinoa and summer flounder, topped with a tangy vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season the summer flounder with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-fry until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, mixed greens, and cherry tomatoes.
  3. 3. Whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar, then drizzle over the salad. Top with flounder.

Mediterranean Summer Flounder Skewers

Grilled summer flounder skewers marinated in Mediterranean spices, served with a side of tzatziki sauce.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder, cut into cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cucumber, grated
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add flounder cubes and marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Thread the marinated fish onto skewers and grill for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. For tzatziki, mix Greek yogurt with grated cucumber and serve alongside skewers.

Spicy Summer Flounder with Mango Salsa

Pan-seared summer flounder with a spicy kick, complemented by a refreshing mango salsa.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, diced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season the summer flounder with chili powder and salt, then pan-sear in olive oil for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve the fish topped with mango salsa.

Summer Flounder and Asparagus Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring summer flounder and asparagus, seasoned with ginger and garlic.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder, cut into strips
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté ginger and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender, then add summer flounder strips.
  3. 3. Pour in soy sauce and stir-fry for an additional 5 minutes until the fish is cooked through.

Herbed Summer Flounder with Cauliflower Rice

Oven-baked summer flounder seasoned with fresh herbs, served over a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Season flounder with olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.
  3. 3. Sauté cauliflower rice in a pan for 5-7 minutes and serve under the baked flounder.

Zesty Summer Flounder with Cabbage Slaw

Pan-seared summer flounder served with a crunchy cabbage slaw, dressed in a zesty lime vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 2 fillets of summer flounder
  • 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season the summer flounder with salt and pepper, then pan-sear in olive oil for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrot, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make the slaw.
  3. 3. Serve the fish alongside the cabbage slaw.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best way to cook summer flounder?

Summer flounder can be grilled, baked, or pan-seared. It's best to cook it until it flakes easily with a fork.

Is summer flounder healthy?

Yes, it is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

How can I tell if summer flounder is fresh?

Fresh summer flounder should have a mild smell, firm flesh, and clear, bright eyes.

Can I freeze summer flounder?

Yes, summer flounder can be frozen for up to six months. Wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

What are the nutritional benefits of summer flounder?

It is rich in protein, low in fat, and provides essential vitamins and minerals like B12 and selenium.

How often can I eat summer flounder?

It can be consumed 1-2 times a week as part of a balanced diet, but be mindful of mercury levels.

What dishes can I make with summer flounder?

You can make fish tacos, fish sandwiches, or serve it with a side of vegetables or grains.

Is summer flounder sustainable?

Sustainability varies by fishing method; check for certifications like MSC for sustainable sourcing.