Whole Roasted Branzino

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This whole roasted branzino is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make, with crispy skin, tender flesh, and bright, herby flavors.

• Effortless elegance: Impress guests with a restaurant-quality dish that requires minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients.
• Perfectly balanced: Lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs infuse the fish with zesty, aromatic notes without overpowering its delicate taste.
• Versatile serving: Pair it with roasted veggies, a light salad, or crusty bread—it adapts to any meal, from weeknight dinners to special occasions.

Recipe

Whole roasted branzino is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the delicate flavor of this Mediterranean fish. Perfect for a dinner party or a special weeknight meal, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, allowing the natural taste of the branzino to shine.

Ingredients:

2 whole branzino (about 1 lb each), cleaned and scaled

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 lemon, thinly sliced

1 bunch fresh thyme or rosemary

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Make three diagonal slashes on each side of the fish to help it cook evenly.
4. Rub the fish inside and out with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff the cavity of each fish with minced garlic, lemon slices, and fresh herbs.
6. Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a roasting pan.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes:

• Branzino can also be grilled for a smokier flavor.
• Serve with additional lemon wedges and a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.

Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Serving:

Serves 2

Calories:

Approximately 300 calories per serving

Cuisine:

Mediterranean

Nutrition

Whole roasted branzino is a healthy and flavorful dish, rich in essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing whole roasted branzino with simple, fresh sides like roasted vegetables or a lemony arugula salad to complement its delicate flavor. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, works beautifully to balance the dish’s richness. It’s all about keeping things light and letting the fish shine!

Side Dish Pairings

When I’m serving whole roasted branzino, I always think about sides that complement its light, delicate flavor without overpowering it. Fresh vegetables like roasted asparagus or a crisp fennel salad bring brightness, while Mediterranean flavors—think lemony couscous or herbed olives—add depth without stealing the show. I love tossing cherry tomatoes with garlic and basil for a simple, vibrant dish. A drizzle of olive oil ties everything together. Sometimes, I’ll add grilled artichokes for a touch of earthiness. The key is keeping it light and flavorful, so the branzino stays the star. Trust me, these pairings never disappoint.

Wine Pairings

Since branzino has such a light, fresh flavor, it’s best paired with wines that won’t overpower it. I always reach for a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which complements the delicate seafood pairing perfectly. These wines bring out the fish’s natural sweetness without stealing the show. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll go for a Chablis—its minerality is a match made in heaven. For something a bit different, a dry rosé works wonders too. Trust me, the right wine can turn a simple roasted branzino into a meal you’ll remember. Cheers to that!