Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Elegant: Minimal ingredients allow the natural flavors of the fish to shine.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Branzino is a lean, protein-rich fish packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Fast and Easy: This dish requires little prep and bakes in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 whole branzino, cleaned and gutted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Fish: Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season: Rub the inside and outside of the fish with olive oil, salt, black pepper, oregano, and garlic.
- Stuff the Fish: Fill the cavity of each fish with lemon slices and fresh rosemary or thyme.
- Add Tomatoes: Scatter cherry tomatoes around the fish on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Drizzle with additional olive oil and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Grilled Branzino: Instead of roasting, grill the fish over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
- Crispier Skin: Broil the fish for the last 2 minutes of baking for extra crispy skin.
- Mediterranean Toppings: Add olives, capers, or artichokes for more Mediterranean flavors.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to preserve texture. Avoid microwaving to prevent dryness.
FAQs
Can I use branzino fillets instead of whole fish?
Yes, adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes depending on thickness.
What’s a good substitute for branzino?
Sea bass, snapper, or trout work well with this recipe.
Can I make this dish without wine?
Yes, you can substitute white wine with vegetable broth or just omit it.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The flesh should be opaque and easily flake apart with a fork.
Should I remove the skin before serving?
The skin is edible and adds flavor, but you can remove it if preferred.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus make great additions.
Is branzino a sustainable fish choice?
Yes, farmed branzino is considered a sustainable seafood option.
How do I remove bones before eating?
Gently separate the fillet from the backbone with a fork to avoid bones.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with roasted potatoes, rice, or a simple Greek salad.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can season and stuff the fish ahead of time, then bake just before serving.
Conclusion
Branzino Mediterranean is a simple yet elegant dish that brings fresh, bright flavors to your table. With its delicate texture and aromatic seasonings, this easy recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a healthy and delicious meal. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean at home!
