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Instructions
Step 1: 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.
Step 2: Prepare the Branzino
Pat the fish dry with paper towels. Score the skin with shallow diagonal cuts on both sides to help the flavors penetrate.
Step 3: Season the Fish
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Rub this mixture all over the fish, including inside the cavity.
Step 4: Stuff the Fish
Stuff each fish with lemon slices, a few cherry tomatoes, and a couple of olives. This enhances the Mediterranean aroma and infuses the fish with flavor.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the fish on the prepared baking sheet. Surround it with the remaining cherry tomatoes and olives. Drizzle any leftover olive oil mixture on top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer a crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with a side of roasted vegetables, couscous, or a simple Mediterranean salad.
Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Branzino
- Use fresh fish – Fresh Branzino has clear eyes, firm flesh, and a mild sea aroma.
- Don’t overcook – The fish is done when it easily flakes with a fork (internal temperature of 130-140°F / 55-60°C).
- Enhance with a sauce – Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil or a garlic-lemon butter sauce for extra richness.
This Oven-Baked Mediterranean Branzino is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Enjoy this healthy, flavor-packed meal with a glass of white wine for the ultimate Mediterranean dining experience!
Let me know if you’d like any tweaks! 😊
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