Whole Baked Branzino Fish

Delight in a healthy and flavorful meal with this Whole Baked Branzino Fish. Roasted to perfection with fresh herbs, citrus, and veggies, this dish is elegant, simple to prepare, and bursting with vibrant flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant and Easy: Perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
• Fresh and Healthy: Packed with lean protein, veggies, and fresh herbs.
• Bursting with Flavor: Citrus, rosemary, and cumin infuse the fish with irresistible aromas.
• Minimal Cleanup: Baked in parchment paper for a hassle-free experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 Branzino, cleaned and soaked in lemon water for 15 minutes
• 1 tomato, sliced thick
• 10 grape tomatoes, washed
• 1 red onion, cut into 4–6 wedges
• 6 cloves garlic, peeled
• Handful fresh cilantro, parsley, dill
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ tablespoon dry rosemary
• ½ tablespoon cumin powder
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet or wide pot with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the Ingredients:
   • Place the cleaned Branzino on the parchment paper.
   • Scatter the sliced tomato, grape tomatoes, red onion, and garlic around the fish.
3. Season the Fish:
   • Insert 2 lemon slices into the belly of each fish.
   • Sprinkle the fish with salt, pepper, rosemary, cumin, and fresh herbs.
   • Drizzle the olive oil over the fish and veggies.
4. Bake the Fish:
   • Bake the fish uncovered for 20 minutes.
   • For a crispy finish, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid drying out the fish.
5. Add Final Touches:
   • Remove the fish from the oven and baste it with the pan juices.
   • Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and garnish with more dill and parsley.
6. Serve:
   Serve the fish warm, accompanied by the roasted veggies.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 2

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasoning.
• Herb Swap: Use thyme or basil if you don’t have dill or parsley.
• Veggie Additions: Include zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for more variety.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add olives and capers to the vegetable mix for a Mediterranean flair.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or serve the fish cold in a salad.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of fish?

Yes, trout, snapper, or sea bass work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time based on the size of the fish.

2. Do I need to remove the fish scales?

Yes, ensure the fish is fully cleaned and descaled before baking.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the fish and veggies up to 4 hours ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

4. How do I know the fish is done?

The fish is cooked when the flesh flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

5. Can I use fresh rosemary instead of dried?

Absolutely! Use 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh rosemary in place of the dried version.

6. What side dishes pair well with this?

Serve with a side of roasted potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad.

7. Can I skip the lemon soaking step?

Lemon water helps remove any fishy odor and enhances the flavor, but you can skip it if the fish is very fresh.

8. How do I prevent the fish from sticking to the parchment paper?

Make sure the parchment is well-oiled with olive oil.

9. Can I cook this in foil instead of parchment?

Yes, foil works just as well and helps retain moisture.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the citrus and herb flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Whole Baked Branzino Fish is a simple yet elegant dish that’s sure to impress. The combination of tender, flaky fish with roasted veggies and vibrant citrus and herb flavors makes it a delightful, healthy meal. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. Serve it warm and enjoy the delicious harmony of flavors!

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