Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of lemon, garlic, and herbs enhances the fish’s natural flavor without overpowering it.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Branzino is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish as good for you as it is delicious.
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and a quick baking time, this recipe is ideal for both weeknight meals and entertaining.
Ingredients
- 2 whole branzino fish (scaled, gutted, and cleaned)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup dry white wine
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Fish: Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Ensure the fish is completely dry to achieve crispy skin.
- Season the Fish: Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the fish. Season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity of each fish with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon slices.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the prepared fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the top and place additional lemon slices on top of the fish.
- Add Wine (Optional): Pour the white wine around the fish on the baking sheet to add moisture and depth of flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork, and the skin should be golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired. Serve whole on a platter, accompanied by your choice of side dishes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on portion sizes.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Herb-Encrusted Branzino: Create a crust using breadcrumbs mixed with chopped rosemary, oregano, and grated lemon zest. Pat this mixture onto the fish before baking for a crispy, flavorful exterior.
- Grilled Branzino: Prepare the branzino as directed, then place it on a preheated grill instead of baking. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a new dimension to this Mediterranean classic.
- Stuffed Branzino: Stuff the fish with a mixture of couscous, herbs, and pine nuts for a filling twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover branzino in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the fish rubbery.
FAQs
What is branzino?
Branzino, also known as European sea bass, is a white fish prized for its mild flavor and delicate texture.
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, similar white fish like sea bass or snapper can be used as substitutes.
Do I need to scale and gut the fish myself?
It’s recommended to ask your fishmonger to clean and gut the fish for you.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs are preferred for their flavor, but dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities.
Is the white wine necessary?
The white wine adds depth of flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
How can I tell if the fish is cooked through?
The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, couscous, or a crisp green salad complement this dish well.
Can I eat the skin of the branzino?
Yes, the skin is edible and becomes crispy when baked.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze cooked branzino?
It’s not recommended to freeze cooked branzino, as it can affect the texture.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino is a delightful and healthy dish that brings
Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2-4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with this Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino. A simple, flavorful dish featuring fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, this healthy recipe highlights the delicate flavors of branzino, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 whole branzino fish (scaled, gutted, and cleaned)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2–3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup dry white wine
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Fish: Rinse branzino under cold water and pat dry.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the fish. Season with salt and pepper. Stuff each fish with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and lemon slices.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place fish on top, drizzle with more olive oil, and add extra lemon slices.
- Add Wine (Optional): Pour white wine around the fish on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork, and the skin is crispy.
- Serve: Rest for a few minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor, but dried can be substituted if needed.
- The white wine adds depth, but chicken broth or water can be used as alternatives.
- Perfect side dishes include roasted vegetables, couscous, or a crisp green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
