Oven Baked Mediterranean Branzino (Sea-Bass)

 

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# **Oven-Baked Mediterranean Branzino (Sea Bass): A Flavorful and Healthy Delight**

Branzino, also known as Mediterranean sea bass, is a prized fish known for its delicate, flaky texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. One of the best ways to prepare this fish is by oven-baking it with Mediterranean flavors like olive oil, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. This method not only enhances its natural taste but also keeps it moist and tender.

## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– **Simple and Elegant** – Requires minimal prep but delivers gourmet results.
– **Healthy and Nutritious** – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein.
– **Bursting with Flavor** – Infused with Mediterranean herbs, citrus, and garlic.

## **Ingredients**

– 2 whole Branzino (cleaned and gutted)
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 2 lemons (one sliced, one juiced)
– 4 garlic cloves (minced)
– 1 tsp sea salt
– ½ tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary
– ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
– ¼ cup Kalamata olives (pitted and sliced)
– Fresh parsley (for garnish)

*Instructions**

### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

### **Step 2: Prepare the Branzino**
Pat the fish dry with paper towels. Score the skin with shallow diagonal cuts on both sides to help the flavors penetrate.

### **Step 3: Season the Fish**
In a small bowl, mix **olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes**. Rub this mixture all over the fish, including inside the cavity.

### **Step 4: Stuff the Fish**
Stuff each fish with **lemon slices, a few cherry tomatoes, and a couple of olives**. This enhances the Mediterranean aroma and infuses the fish with flavor.

### **Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet**
Place the fish on the prepared baking sheet. Surround it with the remaining **cherry tomatoes and olives**. Drizzle any leftover olive oil mixture on top.

### **Step 6: Bake to Perfection**
Bake for **20-25 minutes** or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer a crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for the last **2-3 minutes**.

### **Step 7: Garnish and Serve**
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with a side of roasted vegetables, couscous, or a simple Mediterranean salad.

## **Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Branzino**
– **Use fresh fish** – Fresh Branzino has clear eyes, firm flesh, and a mild sea aroma.
– **Don’t overcook** – The fish is done when it easily flakes with a fork (internal temperature of **130-140°F / 55-60°C**).
– **Enhance with a sauce** – Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil or a garlic-lemon butter sauce for extra richness.

This **Oven-Baked Mediterranean Branzino** is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy this healthy, flavor-packed meal with a glass of white wine for the ultimate Mediterranean dining experience!

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