Description
Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino is a flavorful and healthy dish that captures the vibrant, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean. The delicate branzino (Mediterranean sea bass) is seasoned with aromatic herbs, lemon, and garlic, then baked to perfection. This dish is perfect for a light, yet elegant dinner. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 whole branzino (about 1 lb each), cleaned and scaled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 for juice)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup white wine or vegetable broth (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
- Prepare the Fish:
- Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure the fish is fully cleaned and scaled.
- Using a sharp knife, score the fish on both sides by making a few diagonal cuts (about 2-3 cuts on each side). This will help the seasoning penetrate and cook more evenly.
- Season the Fish:
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the olive oil and herb mixture generously on both sides of the branzino, making sure to get some of the seasoning into the scored cuts and inside the cavity of the fish.
- Stuff the Fish:
- Stuff the cavity of each fish with a few slices of lemon and a portion of the minced garlic. This will infuse the fish with additional flavor as it bakes.
- Bake the Fish:
- Place the branzino on the prepared baking sheet. If you’d like extra moisture and flavor, pour the white wine or vegetable broth around the fish on the baking sheet (optional).
- Bake the branzino in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. The fish should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top for an added burst of flavor.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a simple Mediterranean salad.
Notes
- Fish Options: Branzino is a great choice, but you can also use other white fish like snapper, sea bass, or trout for this recipe.
- Extra Flavors: Add some kalamata olives or capers inside the cavity for a more Mediterranean twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with a side of quinoa, couscous, or a light Mediterranean pasta salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whole branzino (about 1 lb)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 80mg