This Italian poached fish dish creates perfectly cooked and flavorful fish every time! Acqua pazza translates to "crazy water." We’re creating our "crazy water" with a bright mixture of cherry tomatoes, fennel and celery and kicking it up a notch with the spice from the Fresno chile and the salty brininess from the capers and olives.
Add the olive oil to a straight-sided skillet and heat over medium. Add the shallots, celery, Fresno chile and fennel and season with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Add the cherry tomatoes and garlic and season with another pinch of salt. Add the white wine and bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and easily smashed with the back of a spoon, about 10 minutes. Remove the lid and carefully smash the tomatoes, releasing their juices. Add the olives and capers.
Pat the fish dry, sprinkle with the lemon zest and season all over with salt and pepper. Nestle the fish into the tomato mixture. Cover the skillet and cook until the fish is opaque and easily flakes with a fork, 10 to 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and garnish with the basil and parsley. Use the zested lemon to squeeze lemon juice on top, if desired. Serve with crusty bread.
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