Ingredients
Scale
- 2 whole branzino (scaled and gutted)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (smashed)
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
- Clean and Prep the Fish: Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Score the fish with shallow cuts on both sides to help with even cooking.
- Season the Fish: Rub olive oil all over the fish, both inside and out. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity of each fish with lemon slices, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
- Roast the Fish: Place the branzino on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 18-20 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The skin should be crispy, and the flesh should be opaque.
- Serve: Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter. Drizzle with more olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried rosemary and thyme can be used. Adjust the quantity to 1/2 teaspoon each.
- Branzino pairs well with roasted potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a light couscous salad.
- For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on the fish before roasting.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 300 Kcal
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: branzino recipe, roasted branzino, Mediterranean fish recipe, easy seafood dinner, gluten-free fish recipe, healthy branzino