Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino is a simple yet elegant dish that combines the delicate flavors of Branzino with aromatic herbs and citrus. With fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano, and lemon, this recipe brings the refreshing essence of the Mediterranean right to your table. Whether you're preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it's guaranteed to impress with its crispy skin, tender fish, and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 fillets Branzino (6 ounces each, about 170 grams)
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lemon (thinly sliced)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh oregano
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup dry white wine
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the Branzino fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange rosemary, thyme, and oregano sprigs on top of the fillets.
- Lay lemon slices over the fish, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the white wine around the fish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Herb Crust: Add a breadcrumb and herb mixture on top of the fillets before baking for extra texture.
- En Papillote: For a more dramatic presentation, bake the Branzino wrapped in parchment paper.
- Stuffed Whole Branzino: Use a whole fish stuffed with lemon, garlic, and herbs for a richer flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place the fish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Branzino fillets?
Yes, frozen fillets work fine. Ensure they are completely thawed and pat them dry before baking for the best results.
How do I know when the fish is done?
The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and flakes easily with a fork.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the fillets with herbs and lemon and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking, but it's best served fresh.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just check that the wine and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What sides go well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables, mixed greens salad, or a quinoa salad pair beautifully with the delicate flavors of the Branzino.
Can I substitute the white wine?
You can substitute with vegetable broth and a splash of white wine vinegar for a non-alcoholic version.
How can I add more flavor to the dish?
Try adding a drizzle of fresh olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Can I use other fish for this recipe?
Yes, any mild white fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia can be used as a substitute for Branzino.
Can I grill this fish instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling the Branzino will give it a smokier flavor. Just be sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
What wine should I serve with this dish?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs wonderfully with the fresh flavors of the fish.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino is a simple, flavorful, and healthy dish that brings the tastes of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. With its blend of fresh herbs, citrus, and tender fish, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether served as a family dinner or at a gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino
Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino is a fresh, light, and delicious recipe that combines succulent Branzino fish with aromatic Mediterranean herbs and citrus. This easy-to-make dish features rosemary, thyme, oregano, and lemon, creating vibrant flavors that transport you to the Mediterranean. Baked to perfection, the fish is tender and flaky with a crispy skin, perfect for any occasion, whether a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 fillets Branzino (6 ounces each, about 170 grams)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lemon (thinly sliced)
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh oregano
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup dry white wine
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the Branzino fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, and sprinkle with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange rosemary, thyme, and oregano sprigs on top of the fillets.
- Lay lemon slices over the fish, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the white wine around the fish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Let the fish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Herb Crust: Add a breadcrumb and herb mixture on top of the fillets for added texture.
- En Papillote: For a more dramatic presentation, bake the Branzino wrapped in parchment paper.
- Stuffed Whole Branzino: Use a whole fish stuffed with lemon, garlic, and herbs for a richer flavor.
