Go Back

Mediterranean Branzino

Shruthi
Mediterranean Branzino features tender, flaky whole fish with bright flavors.Fresh lemon adds acidity and complements the delicate seafood.Garlic and oregano create an aromatic Mediterranean seasoning.Cherry tomatoes provide sweetness and juicy texture.Olives add a delicious salty contrast.Fresh parsley creates a vibrant finishing touch.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 whole branzino, cleaned and scaled
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives
  • ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Instructions
 

Prepare the Oven

  • First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Branzino

  • Rinse the cleaned fish if necessary and pat it completely dry.Make three shallow diagonal cuts along each side of the fish.These cuts help the seasoning penetrate the flesh.

Season the Fish

  • Drizzle olive oil over both sides of each branzino.Season the fish with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.Rub the seasonings gently into the skin and cavity.

Add Aromatic Ingredients

  • Place lemon slices, garlic, and fresh parsley inside each fish cavity.Arrange additional lemon slices around the fish.
    Scatter cherry tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives around the fish.Drizzle the vegetables with the remaining olive oil.

Roast the Branzino

  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.Roast for approximately 25–30 minutes.The fish should become opaque and flake easily when tested.
    For food safety, the thickest portion should reach 145°F (63°C).

Finish and Serve

  • Remove the roasted fish from the oven.Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the fish and vegetables.Garnish generously with fresh parsley.
    Serve immediately with your favorite Mediterranean side dishes.

Notes

  • Choose fresh branzino with clear eyes and firm flesh.
  • Ask your fishmonger to clean and scale the fish.
  • Pat the fish dry before seasoning.
  • Fresh lemon provides excellent brightness.
  • Kalamata olives add Mediterranean character.
  • Whole fish generally stays moist during roasting.
  • Cooking time depends on fish size.
  • Check the thickest portion before serving.
Keyword baked sea bass, lemon garlic fish, Mediterranean branzino, Mediterranean sea bass, roasted branzino, whole branzino recipe