If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality seafood dish that’s easy to make at home, this Crispy Lemon Roasted Branzino is just what you need. With its golden, crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh, this Mediterranean-inspired fish is not only delicious but also surprisingly simple to prepare. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs brings out the natural flavors of the branzino, making every bite incredibly satisfying.
But first, what exactly is branzino? Known as European sea bass, this mild, buttery fish is a staple in Italian and Greek cuisine. Because it has a light flavor, it pairs beautifully with bold seasonings like garlic, olive oil, and citrus. Plus, roasting it whole ensures maximum juiciness, giving you that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat.
The best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. Just season, roast, and in less than 30 minutes, dinner is served. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving an easy yet elegant seafood dish, this Crispy Lemon Roasted Branzino is guaranteed to impress.
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
2 whole branzino (about 1.5 lb each), cleaned and scaled
¼ cup olive oil
1 large lemon, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 ½ tsp sea salt
1 ¼ tsp black pepper
3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Extra lemon wedges, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat the oven: First, set your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or, if you prefer, lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the fish: Next, pat both branzino completely dry with paper towels—this step is essential for getting that crispy skin. Then, using a sharp knife, make three shallow diagonal slashes on each side of the fish. Not only does this help the seasoning soak in, but it also ensures even cooking.
3. Season inside and out: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Once mixed, rub this flavorful blend evenly over both fish, making sure to coat the skin thoroughly as well as the inside of the cavity for maximum flavor.
4. Stuff with aromatics: Now, fill each cavity with lemon slices, fresh parsley, and thyme. For an extra kick, you can also sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes inside and over the skin. This small step makes a big difference in enhancing the taste.
5. Roast to perfection: Carefully place both fish on the prepared baking sheet, then transfer it to the oven. Let them roast for 20-22 minutes, or until the skin turns crispy and the flesh flakes easily with a fork. If you love extra crispiness, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes. The fish is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once done, remove the branzino from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Finally, serve with extra lemon wedges and a generous drizzle of olive oil for a bright, flavorful finish.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Balance the Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the salt! Branzino has delicate flesh that benefits from the right amount of seasoning.
- Extra Crispy Skin: Pat the fish extra dry before rubbing with oil, and broil briefly at the end for the best texture.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with roasted potatoes, a fresh Mediterranean salad, or a side of garlic butter asparagus for a complete meal.
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