Description
This branzino fillet recipe is a simple yet elegant seafood dish that brings out the delicate flavors of Mediterranean sea bass. With crispy skin, a zesty lemon butter sauce, and aromatic herbs, this dish is perfect for a light and healthy dinner. Whether pan-seared, baked, or grilled, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Branzino Fillet
- 2 fresh branzino fillets (skin-on)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Lemon Butter Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp white wine (optional)
Instructions
Instructions
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Prepare the Fillets – Pat the branzino fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and lemon zest to enhance the flavor.
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Heat the Pan – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This ensures a crispy skin.
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Pan-Sear the Fillets – Place the fillets skin-side down in the pan. Press gently with a spatula for the first 30 seconds to prevent curling. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
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Flip and Finish Cooking – Carefully flip the fillets and add butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
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Make the Lemon Butter Sauce – In a separate small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in lemon juice, thyme, and white wine (if using). Simmer for 1-2 minutes.
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Plate and Serve – Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the fillets, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Dry the fillets well before cooking to achieve the crispiest skin.
- Use a high-smoke-point oil like avocado oil if you prefer extra crispiness.
- For a healthier version, bake the fillets at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of pan-searing.
- Pairing tip: Serve with roasted potatoes, grilled asparagus, or a fresh Mediterranean salad for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-seared
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: branzino fillet recipe, crispy pan-seared branzino, Mediterranean sea bass, grilled branzino, lemon butter branzino, healthy fish recipe, seafood dinner