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branzino recipes

Branzino Recipes: Top Ways to Cook Mediterranean Sea Bass

This Mediterranean-style Branzino recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for a healthy dinner. Featuring fresh whole branzino seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, then roasted to perfection, this dish offers tender, flaky fish with a crispy, flavorful skin. Ideal for seafood lovers, this recipe pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Ready in under an hour, it’s a great choice for a quick yet gourmet meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

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.
  • Author: monica
  • 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