How do you cook branzino at home?

Branzino is easy to cook at home and works well with simple methods like roasting, grilling, or pan-searing. In this recipe, roasting the fish whole in the oven is the most straightforward option. Season it with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, then cook until the flesh flakes easily and the skin becomes lightly crisp.

Do you eat the skin of branzino?

Yes, branzino skin is edible and often enjoyed when cooked properly. When roasted or pan-seared, the skin becomes thin and crispy, adding texture to the dish. If you prefer not to eat it, the skin can be removed easily after cooking.

What does branzino taste like?

Branzino has a mild, slightly sweet flavor with a delicate, flaky texture. It is less “fishy” than many other types of seafood, which makes it popular with people who enjoy light and balanced flavors. Its neutral taste pairs well with lemon, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs.

Is branzino usually cooked whole?

Yes, branzino is commonly cooked and served whole, especially in Mediterranean cuisine. Cooking it whole helps keep the fish moist and allows the herbs and aromatics stuffed inside to flavor the flesh evenly. The bones are easy to remove after cooking, making it simple to serve.

Branzino Recipe: Greek-Style Roasted Branzino for Simple Meal

Description

This Greek-style roasted branzino recipe features whole Mediterranean sea bass seasoned with olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, then roasted until tender with lightly crispy skin. A simple and elegant seafood dish inspired by classic Mediterranean cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

2 whole branzino (Mediterranean sea bass), cleaned and gutted
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 lemons, sliced
4–6 garlic cloves, sliced or minced
Fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, or dill)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Cherry tomatoes (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat dry thoroughly.
Make shallow slits on both sides of each fish.
Place the fish on a parchment-lined baking sheet or roasting pan.
Drizzle olive oil over the fish and season with salt and black pepper.
Rub garlic into the slits and inside the cavity.
Stuff the cavity with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
Arrange extra lemon slices and cherry tomatoes around the fish if using.
Roast for 15–20 minutes, until the flesh flakes easily with a fork.
Optional: Broil for 3–4 minutes for crispier skin.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Notes

Patting the fish dry helps achieve crispier skin. Avoid overcooking, as branzino cooks quickly. You can substitute branzino with sea bass or snapper. Serve with salads, roasted vegetables, or rice.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Seafood Recipes
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Greek / Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 whole fish
Calories: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Unsaturated Fat: N/A
Trans Fat: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Protein: N/A
Cholesterol: N/A

Keywords: greek branzino recipe, roasted branzino, mediterranean sea bass, whole fish recipe, greek seafood recipe, oven roasted fish