Are you craving a healthy, delicious, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This oven-baked branzino filet recipe is your answer. Branzino, also known as European sea bass, is a delicate, flaky white fish with a mild flavor that makes it incredibly versatile. This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or complicated techniques, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 branzino filets (about 6 ounces each), scaled and gutted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your branzino cooks evenly and to perfection.
- Prepare the fish: Pat the branzino filets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor of the fish.
- Create the flavor base: In a small oven-safe skillet or baking dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Assemble and bake: Place the branzino filets in the skillet. Top each filet with lemon slices, rosemary, and thyme sprigs. Pour the white wine (or chicken broth) around the fish.
- Oven time: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your filets. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the branzino from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This simple garnish adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Tips for Perfect Branzino:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure enough space between the filets for even cooking. If necessary, use two separate baking dishes.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the fish. It's ready when it easily flakes apart. Overcooking will result in dry fish.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker filets will require a longer cooking time. Always check for doneness before removing from the oven.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Roasted cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or zucchini would be delicious additions to this dish. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast alongside the branzino.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Herbs de Provence: Substitute the rosemary and thyme with a blend of Herbs de Provence for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
This easy branzino recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meal preparation. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and it's a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade cooking!