Why Make This Recipe
Mediterranean Lemon Roasted Sea Bass is a delightful dish that brings the refreshing flavors of the sea to your table. With its bright lemon notes and fragrant herbs, it’s a perfect combination of taste and health. This recipe is simple yet elegant, making it great for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Cooking whole fish adds a unique presentation, while the easy preparation makes it accessible for everyone.
How to Make Mediterranean Lemon Roasted Sea Bass
Ingredients
- 2 whole sea bass (about 1½ pounds each), cleaned and scaled
- 2 lemons (1 sliced thin, 1 juiced)
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the fish dry and score the skin.
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper to form a paste.
- Rub the paste inside and outside of the fish, filling the cavities with lemon slices.
- Place the fish on the baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and roast for 22–25 minutes until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Let the fish rest for 3–4 minutes. Before serving, garnish with parsley and a final squeeze of lemon.
How to Serve Mediterranean Lemon Roasted Sea Bass
Serve the roasted sea bass with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables or a light salad. A glass of white wine complements this dish beautifully. For an extra touch, you can drizzle some additional olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs over the fish just before serving.
How to Store Mediterranean Lemon Roasted Sea Bass
If you have leftovers, let the fish cool to room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be eaten within 2 days for the best flavor. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy it cold in a salad.
Tips to Make Mediterranean Lemon Roasted Sea Bass
- Make sure to score the skin of the fish; this helps to cook it evenly and adds a crispy texture.
- Using fresh herbs will make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
- If you can’t find sea bass, you can use other whole fish like snapper or trout, adjusting cooking time as needed based on the size.
Variation
You can add your choice of vegetables, like cherry tomatoes or onion slices, on the baking sheet with the fish for added flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use fillets instead of whole fish?
Yes, you can use sea bass fillets. Adjust the cooking time to about 10–15 minutes.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
Roasted potatoes, quinoa, or a simple green salad pair nicely with this fish.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the olive oil and seasonings are free from any additives that may contain gluten.
Mediterranean Lemon Roasted Sea Bass
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A simple yet elegant dish featuring roasted whole sea bass with bright lemon and fragrant herbs, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 whole sea bass (about 1½ pounds each), cleaned and scaled
- 2 lemons (1 sliced thin, 1 juiced)
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pat the fish dry and score the skin.
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper to form a paste.
- Rub the paste inside and outside of the fish, filling the cavities with lemon slices.
- Place the fish on the baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and roast for 22–25 minutes until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Let the fish rest for 3–4 minutes. Before serving, garnish with parsley and a final squeeze of lemon.
Notes
Score the skin of the fish for even cooking and a crispy texture. Fresh herbs significantly enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean