Branzino
A simple and flavorful Mediterranean branzino recipe that brings the taste of the sea into your home kitchen, featuring fresh herbs and spices for a delightful dining experience.
Ingredients
For the Branzino
- 4 pieces branzino fillets Fresh, firm, and shiny
For Marination
- 1/4 cup olive oil For marinating the fish
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice Freshly squeezed
- 3 cloves garlic Minced
- 1 teaspoon oregano Dried or fresh
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- 1/4 cup chopped olives Kalamata or green
- 1 tablespoon capers For tangy flavor
- 1/4 cup white wine Dry white wine for deglazing
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest For vibrant flavor
- 1 teaspoon paprika For color and flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Clean the branzino by scaling and rinsing it. Dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the branzino in a dish or a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Cooking
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- For grilling, oil the grill grates and cook the branzino for 5-6 minutes per side, until it reaches 145°F.
- For baking, place the fish on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake for 18-22 minutes.
- For pan-searing, heat oil in a skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Serving
- Serve the branzino with roasted vegetables or a Mediterranean salad on the side.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
To keep branzino moist, avoid overcooking it. Rest the fish for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.