Gurnard stewed in tomato sauce is an underrated mediterranean fish dish. This high protein meal is a fresh, healthy, budget-friendly family dinner from Italy's coastal tradition.
Pat gurnard fillets dry and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper while prepping other ingredients.
Heat the olive oil in a wide Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion, celery, carrot, and garlic; sauté gently for 6–7 minutes until soft but not colored.
Raise heat, add the gurnard fillets in a single layer, and sear each side for 1 minute. Gently transfer fillets to a plate (they do not need to cook through yet).
Pour white wine into the pan, scraping any browned bits. Allow it to reduce for about 2 minutes.
Add canned tomatoes (crushing by hand), and simmer uncovered over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with a pinch more salt and pepper as needed.
Gently slide the gurnard fillets into the sauce, spooning some sauce over the fish. Cover and simmer very gently on low heat for 8–10 minutes until fish is just cooked through.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley just before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread, if desired.