How to Make Branzino al Forno Easy Whole Roasted Sea Bass Recipe

Branzino al Forno
Whole roasted sea bass seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.

Branzino al Forno (Whole Roasted Sea Bass)
Servings: 2-4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients:
2 whole branzino (sea bass), cleaned and scaled (about 1-1.5 lbs each)
3 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra for serving)
6-8 sprigs fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley, or a mix)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
Cherry tomatoes or sliced vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Branzino:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Rinse the fish under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Score the skin on both sides with 2-3 diagonal cuts.
2. Season the Fish:

Drizzle olive oil inside and outside the fish.
Season generously with salt and black pepper, ensuring the seasoning gets into the cuts.
Stuff the cavity of each fish with garlic slices, lemon slices, and a few sprigs of fresh herbs.
3. Arrange in the Baking Dish:

Place the fish on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a lightly greased baking dish.
Scatter any remaining garlic, lemon, and herbs around the fish. Add cherry tomatoes or vegetables for garnish if desired.
(Optional) Pour white wine into the dish for added moisture and flavor.
4. Roast the Fish:

Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
For a crispy skin, broil on high for the last 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve:

Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges.
Serve with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
Tips:
Selecting Fresh Fish: Look for clear eyes, shiny skin, and a fresh ocean smell when buying branzino.
Dealing with Bones: Branzino is typically served whole, but you can ask your fishmonger to fillet it if you prefer.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for special occasions or a Mediterranean-inspired dinner. Enjoy! 🐟🍋