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### Ingredients
– 2 whole branzino (about 1 pound each), cleaned and scaled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lemon, thinly sliced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme (or a combination of both)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
### Instructions
#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the fish evenly without drying it out.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Fish
1. Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Make sure to remove any remaining scales if they weren’t fully cleaned.
2. Using a sharp knife, make a few diagonal slashes on each side of the fish. This helps the fish cook more evenly and allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the flesh.
#### Step 3: Season the Fish
1. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the branzino. Rub it in gently to coat the fish evenly.
2. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stuff the cavity of each fish with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme, along with a couple of garlic cloves and a few lemon slices. These will infuse the fish with aromatic flavors as it bakes.
#### Step 4: Arrange the Fish on a Baking Sheet
1. Place the branzino on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Make sure they are laid flat to ensure even cooking.
2. Top each fish with a few additional lemon slices for extra citrusy flavor.
#### Step 5: Bake the Fish
1. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through. You’ll know it’s done when the flesh is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
2. For an extra crispy skin, you can broil the fish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
#### Step 6: Garnish and Serve
1. Once the fish is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes.
2. Carefully transfer the branzino to serving plates, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.
### Why This Lemon Baked Branzino is a Must-Try
**1. Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor:**
This dish is the epitome of simplicity. Fresh ingredients like lemon, herbs, and garlic enhance the delicate branzino without overpowering its natural flavor. It’s an excellent example of how fewer ingredients can create something truly flavorful.
**2. Healthful and Light:**
Branzino is a healthy, heart-healthy fish rich in protein and low in fat. When paired with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs, it creates a meal that is not only satisfying but also full of nutrients. It’s a great option for anyone looking to eat lighter without sacrificing taste.
**3. Versatility:**
While the lemon-baked branzino is perfect on its own, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it alongside roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or even garlic mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal. It also goes well with grains like quinoa or couscous if you’re looking to add some texture and variety.
**4. Impressive and Elegant:**
Baking branzino whole adds an elegant touch to your meal. It’s a beautiful way to present a fish dish, and your guests will be impressed by the flavor and presentation. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy your company.
### Tips for Perfect Lemon Baked Branzino
– **Fresh Herbs Are Key:** Fresh rosemary or thyme makes a big difference in this recipe. If you only have dried herbs, use them sparingly—about 1/3 of the amount of fresh herbs called for.
– **Check the Fish for Doneness:** If you’re unsure whether the fish is cooked, use a fork to gently flake the flesh near the center. If it easily separates, the fish is ready.
– **Use a Baking Dish for Even Cooking:** If you don’t want to use a baking sheet, you can also bake the branzino in a shallow baking dish. Just make sure the fish fits comfortably in the dish to allow even heat distribution.
– **Serving with Side Dishes:** Consider pairing this dish with roasted vegetables, a citrus salad, or rice pilaf for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, would also pair beautifully with the fresh, citrusy flavors of the branzino.
### A Fresh, Flavorful Dish You’ll Love
This **Lemon Baked Branzino** is not only a delicious meal, but it’s also a great way to enjoy healthy, sustainable seafood. The combination of light, flaky fish with aromatic herbs, garlic, and fresh lemon is the perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving it to friends and family, this dish offers a simple yet elegant way to enjoy seafood at its finest.
The next time you’re in the mood for something fresh, flavorful, and easy to prepare, give this recipe a try. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress, leaving you and your guests craving more!
