Lemon and Thyme Roasted Sea Bass

If you’re in the mood for something fresh, light, and bursting with flavor, Lemon and Thyme Roasted Sea Bass is your go-to dish. This recipe brings together the delicate, flaky goodness of sea bass with the refreshing brightness of lemon and the earthy aroma of thyme. It’s a dish that’s as elegant as it is simple—perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet. The best part? It requires minimal ingredients and can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for when you want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Let’s dive in and make some magic happen with this easy, flavorful fish dish!

Why You’ll Love Lemon and Thyme Roasted Sea Bass

• Light Yet Flavorful: The sea bass has a mild, delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrusy zing of lemon and the fragrant herbal notes of thyme.
• Quick & Simple: With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you still want something impressive.
• Healthy & Delicious: Packed with lean protein and omega-3s, this dish is not only delicious but nourishing too. It’s light and satisfying without leaving you feeling heavy.
• Versatile: Whether you’re serving it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of pasta, this sea bass pairs well with almost anything. You can even serve it with a drizzle of olive oil or a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a more indulgent meal.

Ingredients

• Sea Bass Fillets: Skin-on or skinless, whichever you prefer, but skin-on helps keep the fish moist during cooking.
• Fresh Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an aromatic, earthy flavor that complements the fish perfectly.
• Lemon: Both lemon juice and lemon slices are used to infuse the sea bass with fresh, zesty citrus flavors.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds a savory depth of flavor to the dish.
• Olive Oil: For drizzling over the fish to ensure a crispy, golden exterior.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the fish and bringing out all the natural flavors.

(Note: Full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Pat your sea bass fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This helps achieve a beautiful crispy exterior when roasting.

Step 2: Season the Fish

Place the sea bass fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the fillets and rub them to coat evenly. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Lay fresh thyme sprigs on top of each fillet. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fish, and add a few lemon slices on top for extra citrusy goodness.

Step 3: Roast the Fish

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the fish for about 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The sea bass is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the sea bass is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. Serve the fish with a drizzle of the flavorful pan juices, a few extra sprigs of fresh thyme, and a wedge of lemon on the side for added brightness.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories per serving: 250-270 calories
• Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Vitamin A: 4%
• Vitamin C: 35%
• Calcium: 4%
• Iron: 6%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Lemon and Thyme Roasted Sea Bass

• With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or even sweet potatoes would make excellent sides that complement the light flavors of the sea bass.
• With Rice or Quinoa: A bed of fluffy rice or quinoa adds substance to the meal and soaks up the delicious pan juices.
• With a Green Salad: Pair it with a fresh, light salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• With Crispy Potatoes: If you’re craving something a little heartier, crispy roasted potatoes or mashed potatoes make the perfect side to soak up the sauce.

Additional Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Fish: Sea bass cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it. Overcooking will result in dry fish. Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork.
• Customize the Herbs: If you’re not a fan of thyme, feel free to substitute with rosemary, oregano, or dill. Each herb will give the dish a unique twist.
• Try it on the Grill: You can also make this dish on the grill for a smoky flavor. Simply cook the fillets over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen sea bass?

A1: Yes! You can use frozen sea bass; just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking for the best results.

Q2: Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

A2: Yes, this recipe works well with other white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish fillets.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?

A3: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the fish by seasoning it and refrigerating it for up to 2 hours before roasting.

Q4: How do I know when the sea bass is cooked through?

A4: The sea bass should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center. You can also use a food thermometer—aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Q5: Can I make this recipe without garlic?

A5: Yes, you can skip the garlic if you prefer. The lemon and thyme will still provide plenty of flavor.

Q6: How should I store leftovers?

A6: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the fish.

Q7: Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?

A7: Yes! If you only have dried thyme on hand, you can substitute it. Use about 1/3 of the amount called for since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Q8: Can I add other vegetables to the roasting pan?

A8: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes to the pan for a one-pan meal.

Q9: What’s the best way to serve this fish?

A9: Serve it as the main course with a side of vegetables, pasta, or rice. You can also top it with a simple drizzle of olive oil or a light sauce.

Q10: Can I make this recipe in a cast-iron skillet instead of the oven?

A10: Yes! Sear the sea bass in a hot cast-iron skillet for a couple of minutes on each side, then add the lemon and thyme, and finish cooking it on the stovetop. It will cook a bit faster than in the oven.

Conclusion

Lemon and Thyme Roasted Sea Bass is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The combination of fresh thyme, bright lemon, and tender, flaky sea bass is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to enjoy a light and delicious meal, this recipe will make you feel like a culinary genius without any fuss. So, grab that sea bass, squeeze some lemon, and let the flavors of the ocean come to life on your plate!

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