Discover the bright, fresh flavors of the sea with this Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino Recipe. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony—tender, flaky branzino infused with fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and savory garlic. Whether you’re cooking for two or impressing guests, this dish brings a taste of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen with effortless elegance and vibrant color.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino Recipe plays a vital role. From the herbs that deliver aromatic depth to the lemon that adds a refreshing brightness, these essentials combine to create a dish bursting with flavor and appealing to all the senses.
- 2 whole branzino: Fresh, cleaned, and scaled for a delicate yet firm texture that holds seasoning beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps crisp the skin while carrying the herb flavors.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Brings a classic Mediterranean herbal note essential for authentic taste.
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme: Adds earthy, floral undertones that complement the fish perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the seasoning blend.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the garlicky flavor without overpowering.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all other flavors.
- 2 lemons: One for juicy slices inside the fish and one for a final fresh squeeze; lemon’s brightness is key to this dish.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Packed inside the fish for an irresistible fragrant punch.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Used as a garnish to add a pop of green color and fresh flavor.
- 1/4 cup white wine or vegetable broth (optional): Adds moisture and a subtle depth to keep the fish succulent.
How to Make Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preparing a baking sheet either lined with parchment paper or lightly brushed with olive oil ensures your branzino won’t stick and can cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare and Score the Fish
Rinse your branzino under cold water and pat dry thoroughly—this step is important for crisp skin. Then, using a sharp knife, make 2 to 3 diagonal cuts on each side of the fish. This scoring helps your herb and lemon seasoning seep into every layer.
Step 3: Season Generously
Mix olive oil with dried oregano, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the branzino, into the scores and inside the cavity for maximum flavor penetration. Don’t be shy—this is what makes the dish sing.
Step 4: Stuff with Lemon and Garlic
Fill the cavity of each fish with fresh lemon slices and minced garlic. This infusion during baking creates those memorable bursts of citrus and garlicky aroma that elevate your branzino from great to unforgettable.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the fish on your baking sheet, and if you want additional moisture, pour the white wine or vegetable broth around the fish. Slide the fish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, checking that it flakes easily with a fork or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Once out of the oven, drizzle fresh lemon juice over the branzino for a final zest boost. Sprinkle with chopped parsley to add color and freshness before serving.
How to Serve Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that not only adds a vibrant splash of green but also a subtle, peppery freshness that balances the rich flavors. You might also consider thin lemon zest strips for an extra flair.
Side Dishes
This Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino Recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides like roasted vegetables, a simple tomato and cucumber salad, or fluffy couscous. Each side complements the delicate fish without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve the whole baked branzino on a rustic wooden board or beautiful platter garnished with additional lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can also turn your dish into a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover branzino tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, allowing you to savor the flavors again with minimal effort.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked branzino for up to 1 month. Make sure to cool completely, wrap well to prevent freezer burn, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For moist reheating, gently warm your leftover branzino in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) wrapped in foil. This method preserves the fish’s tender texture without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While branzino is ideal for its delicate flavor and flaky texture, similar whole white fish like snapper or trout can be delicious substitutes.
Is it necessary to score the fish before baking?
Scoring helps the seasoning penetrate deeper and allows the fish to cook evenly. It also helps the skin crisp up nicely, so it’s highly recommended.
Can I prepare this recipe without white wine?
Yes, you can substitute white wine with vegetable broth or even water with a splash of lemon juice to maintain moisture and flavor.
How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). The flesh should look opaque and separate effortlessly from the bone.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just make sure you have enough oven space, or bake the fish in batches. Keep the seasoning ratios the same to maintain that perfect Mediterranean flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s elegant yet straightforward, fresh yet full of flavor, you have to try this Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino Recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that transports you to sun-drenched coasts with every bite, and once you make it, it’s bound to become one of your favorite meals to share with loved ones.
Print
Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Mediterranean Herb and Lemon Baked Branzino recipe offers a light and flavorful seafood dish perfect for a healthy dinner. Featuring whole branzino seasoned with oregano, thyme, paprika, and garlic, baked to flaky perfection with fresh lemon and a hint of white wine for extra moisture and depth, it captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with a simple yet elegant preparation.
Ingredients
Fish and Seasoning
- 2 whole branzino (about 1 lb each), cleaned and scaled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Flavoring and Garnish
- 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 for juice)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup white wine or vegetable broth (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Fish: Rinse the branzino thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Ensure the fish is fully cleaned and scaled for the best texture and taste.
- Score the Fish: Using a sharp knife, make 2-3 diagonal cuts on each side of the fish. These scores allow the seasoning to penetrate deeply and help the fish cook evenly.
- Make the Seasoning Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
- Season the Fish: Rub the herb and olive oil mixture generously over both sides of the branzino, making sure to get some seasoning inside the scored cuts and into the cavity for full-flavored fish.
- Stuff the Fish: Place several lemon slices and portions of the minced garlic inside each fish’s cavity. This infuses the fish with fresh, zesty, and garlicky aromas as it bakes.
- Arrange and Add Moisture: Place the prepared branzino onto the baking sheet. For additional moisture and flavor, pour the optional white wine or vegetable broth around the fish on the baking sheet.
- Bake the Fish: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) to ensure doneness.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the fish from the oven and immediately drizzle with fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish that balances the herbs and garlic.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the fish and serve right away, ideally accompanied by Mediterranean-style roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Notes
- You can substitute branzino with any similar white fish, such as sea bass or snapper.
- If you prefer, fresh herbs can be used instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- The optional white wine or vegetable broth keeps the fish moist but can be omitted if desired.
- Scoring the fish is key to allowing the flavors to fully penetrate and cook evenly.
- Check the internal temperature with a cooking thermometer to avoid overcooking and keep the fish tender.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and gently reheated.
