Description
Bring the Mediterranean to your kitchen with this simple and flavorful branzino recipe. Roasted whole with fresh lemon, aromatic herbs, and extra virgin olive oil, this branzino recipe delivers tender, flaky fish that’s bursting with natural flavors. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party centerpiece, this dish requires minimal ingredients and just a bit of preparation for impressive results. Follow this guide to make your next meal a true Mediterranean delight.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole branzino (about 1.5 to 2 lbs), cleaned and gutted
- 2 lemons – one sliced into rounds, one halved
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Fish: Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps ensure crispy skin.
- Season and Stuff: Season the inside of the branzino with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, garlic halves, and a handful of fresh herbs.
- Arrange on Baking Tray: Drizzle olive oil onto a baking sheet. Place the branzino on the sheet and brush or rub the outside of the fish with the remaining olive oil. Season the skin generously with salt and pepper. Arrange extra lemon slices, garlic cloves, and herb sprigs around the fish if desired.
- Roast the Fish: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is fully cooked. The flesh should flake easily with a fork, and the skin should be crisp.
- Finishing Touches: Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve: Transfer the fish to a serving platter and serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, couscous, or a light salad.
Notes
Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the fish. A larger branzino may need additional time in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg