Description
Mediterranean flavors dance in this lemon and thyme roasted sea bass, showcasing delicate fish kissed by zesty citrus and fragrant herbs. Elegant simplicity meets coastal charm, offering you a restaurant-quality dish that sings with fresh, clean taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4 sea bass fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams each)
Aromatic and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt (approximately, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (approximately, to taste)
Liquid and Fat Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 400°F (200°C), ensuring precise temperature for optimal fish cooking.
- Cleanse sea bass fillets thoroughly under cold water, meticulously removing any moisture with paper towels to achieve a crisp exterior.
- Apply seasoning generously across both surfaces of the fish with salt and black pepper, creating a flavor foundation.
- Select a large oven-proof skillet and warm olive oil over medium heat, introducing minced garlic to release its aromatic essence.
- Carefully position fillets skin-side down, allowing the skin to transform into a golden, crispy texture through gentle searing for 2-3 minutes.
- Gently rotate the fillets, strategically surrounding them with fragrant lemon slices and delicate thyme sprigs in the skillet.
- Enhance the cooking environment by drizzling white wine and dispersing small butter fragments throughout the pan, creating a rich cooking liquid.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven, roasting for 12-15 minutes until the fish reaches perfect doneness, effortlessly flaking when tested.
- Allow the fish to rest momentarily after removing from the oven, letting residual heat complete the cooking process.
- Present the dish adorned with roasted lemon slices and thyme sprigs, accompanied by complementary sides like roasted vegetables or light couscous.
Notes
- Choose fresh sea bass with clear, bright eyes and firm flesh for the best flavor and texture.
- Always pat the fish dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden skin that seals in moisture.
- Position the fillets skin-side down first to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the flesh tender and juicy.
- Check fish doneness by gently pressing the thickest part – it should flake easily and appear opaque white throughout.
- Fresh herbs make a significant difference, so opt for vibrant thyme and zesty lemon to enhance the delicate fish flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg