Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This oven-baked branzino fillet recipe is your answer. Branzino, also known as European sea bass, is a delicate white fish with a mild, slightly sweet flavor that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. This recipe is incredibly easy, requiring minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it ideal for even the busiest cooks. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 Branzino fillets (about 6 ounces each), scaled and gutted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup dry white wine
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your branzino cooks evenly and perfectly.
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Prepare the baking dish: Lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet with olive oil. This prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
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Season the fillets: Season both sides of the branzino fillets generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the delicate flavor of the fish.
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Arrange in the baking dish: Place the branzino fillets in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the lemon slices, rosemary sprigs, and garlic slices around and on top of the fish. This adds incredible flavor and aroma during baking.
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Optional: Add white wine: If using, pour the white wine into the bottom of the baking dish. This adds moisture and enhances the flavor profile.
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Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.
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Check for doneness: The fish is cooked when it's opaque and flakes easily. Overcooked branzino will be dry, so it's crucial to check for doneness regularly.
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Serve immediately: Garnish with extra lemon slices and fresh rosemary sprigs before serving. Enjoy your delicious and healthy oven-baked branzino!
Tips for the Best Branzino:
- Choose fresh fish: The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality branzino fillets for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked branzino becomes dry and tough. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as thyme, oregano, or parsley.
- Add vegetables: Enhance your meal by adding roasted vegetables like asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the baking dish.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Branzino: Add Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers to the baking dish for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Branzino: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Lemon-Garlic Butter Branzino: Melt some butter with garlic and lemon juice, and drizzle it over the fillets before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Protein: Around 25-30 grams
- Fat: Around 8-10 grams
This easy branzino recipe is perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner. It's quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this wonderful dish!