Branzino al Forno (Italian Baked Sea Bass Recipe)

Oven-baked sea bass with fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil.

Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

• 2 whole branzino (sea bass), cleaned and scaled (~400–500 g each)

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

• 1 lemon, sliced

• Fresh herbs: rosemary, thyme, or parsley

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Optional: cherry tomatoes or olives for garnish

Preparation

1. Preheat oven:

   • Set oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Prepare the fish:

   • Pat the branzino dry with paper towels.

   • Make 2–3 diagonal cuts on each side of the fish.

   • Season inside and out with salt and pepper.

3. Stuff and flavor:

   • Insert garlic slices, lemon slices, and fresh herbs into the cavity of each fish.

   • Drizzle olive oil over the fish and optionally place more herbs on top.

4. Bake:

   • Place fish on a parchment-lined baking tray.

   • Bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on size, until flesh is opaque and flakes easily.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley, extra lemon wedges, or roasted cherry tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

• Pairs beautifully with light white wines, such as Vermentino or Pinot Grigio.

Cooking Tips

• Use fresh, high-quality branzino for the best flavor.

• Do not overbake to maintain tender, moist flesh.

• Whole fish presentation adds an elegant touch for dinner guests.