Description
Succulent Mediterranean branzino emerges as a culinary masterpiece, blending fresh herbs and delicate flavors. Delightful fish roasted to perfection promises an elegant dining experience you’ll savor with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 2 whole branzino (sea bass), cleaned and scaled
- 1 lemon, sliced
Herbs and Seasonings
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp (5 g) sea salt
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) black pepper
Accompaniments
- 2 tbsp (30 g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) white wine
- 2 wedges lemon, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F, preparing a roasting pan lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup and fish release.
- Pat the branzino completely dry using paper towels to ensure crispy skin during roasting.
- Season the fish interior and exterior thoroughly with minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper, creating an even flavor distribution.
- Carefully stuff the fish cavities with fresh thyme sprigs and lemon slices, which will infuse delicate aromatics during cooking.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the fish, coating the surface evenly to promote golden, crisp skin.
- Place the prepared branzino into the preheated oven and roast for approximately 15-18 minutes, or until the fish becomes opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, splash white wine over the fish to enhance its moisture and add subtle complexity.
- Remove the fish from the oven and let it rest for 3-5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and maintain tenderness.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with additional lemon wedges for a bright, citrusy accent.
Notes
- Ensure the branzino is super dry before seasoning to achieve that coveted crispy, golden skin that transforms the entire dish.
- Experiment with different herb combinations like rosemary or dill instead of thyme for unique flavor profiles that complement the delicate fish.
- Consider removing fish bones beforehand for easier eating, especially when serving guests who prefer boneless preparations.
- Adjust cooking time based on fish thickness; thinner fillets might need less roasting time to prevent overcooking and maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg