Description
This branzino recipe is a simple yet elegant Mediterranean-style dish that highlights the mild, flaky texture of branzino with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon. Whether pan-seared, roasted, or grilled, this dish is easy to make and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole branzino, cleaned and gutted
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Fish
- Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Score the skin 3-4 times on each side using a sharp knife.
2️⃣ Season & Stuff
- Rub the fish with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, rosemary, and thyme.
3️⃣ Heat the Pan
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
4️⃣ Sear the Fish
- Place the branzino skin-side down, pressing lightly for 30 seconds.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
5️⃣ Flip & Finish Cooking
- Flip the fish and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Add butter, extra garlic, and herbs for added flavor.
6️⃣ Baste & Serve
- Spoon the buttery garlic sauce over the fish before serving.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and enjoy!
Notes
- For roasting: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes instead of pan-searing.
- For grilling: Cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared (or Roasted/Grilled)
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ Branzino
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg