Branzino Mediterranean Recipe

Name: Branzino Mediterranean
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 1 red onion, chopped; salt and ground black pepper to taste; 2 whole Branzino (sea bass) fish, cleaned; 4 lemon wedges, divided; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 0.5 cup white wine; 0.25 cup lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves; 0.25 cup chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 red onion, chopped
Salt and ground black pepper to taste
2 whole Branzino (sea bass) fish, cleaned
4 lemon wedges, divided
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
cup white wine
cup lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh oregano leaves
cup chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley

Directions

Preheat the oven to 325F (165C).
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a large baking pan. Add the chopped red onion and season with salt and pepper.
Place the two whole branzino fish into the baking pan. Stuff each fish cavity with 1 lemon wedge, 1 rosemary sprig, and some of the red onion from the pan.
Pour the white wine and lemon juice over the fish. Sprinkle the fish with fresh oregano leaves.
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the fish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Once the fish is cooked, gently slide a spatula between the bones to separate the flesh from the bones and remove all bones.
Serve the fish on a platter, garnished with chopped parsley and the remaining 2 lemon wedges.

Cook's Note

You can sprinkle red pepper flakes on top of the fish before cooking for an added kick. Feel free to add vegetables like celery, peppers, or tomatoes to the pan or inside the fish cavity for extra flavor. For a variation, try grilling the fish, flipping it once during cooking.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 380
Fat: 13g
Carbs: 7g
Protein: 53g
Cholesterol: 117mg
Sodium: 237mg
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 2g
Vitamin C: 25mg
Calcium: 58mg
Iron: 1mg
Potassium: 855mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Branzino Mediterranean Recipe

Origin and History

Branzino, also known as Mediterranean sea bass, has long been a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. This dish has its roots in Southern Europe, particularly in Italy and Greece, where fresh fish and seafood are integral to local diets. The branzino fish is known for its mild, flaky texture and delicate flavor, which makes it a popular choice for grilling, roasting, or baking. The Mediterranean diet, rich in olive oil, herbs, and fresh vegetables, pairs perfectly with the branzino, creating a light yet flavorful dish that is both simple and elegant.

Regional Variations

In Mediterranean regions, the preparation of branzino can vary depending on local traditions. In Italy, it is often prepared whole, grilled or baked with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano, and served with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice. In Greece, a similar approach is used, though the addition of tomatoes, olives, or capers is common. The dish is also frequently paired with local white wines such as Assyrtiko from Greece or Vermentino from Italy. In many coastal villages, branzino is caught fresh daily, and the simplicity of the dish reflects the quality of the fish.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Branzino differs from other Mediterranean fish dishes primarily in its tender texture and mild flavor. While other fish like red snapper or dorado are often used in Mediterranean cuisine, branzino is prized for its soft, flaky meat, which makes it ideal for roasting whole. Unlike more robust fish such as swordfish or tuna, which have a firmer texture, branzino lends itself well to being stuffed with herbs and aromatics like lemon, garlic, and rosemary. Additionally, branzino is usually cooked with the skin on, which helps retain moisture and flavor during the cooking process.

Where It's Typically Served

Branzino is commonly served in seaside restaurants throughout the Mediterranean, where fresh fish is abundant. It's often featured as a main dish during both casual meals and festive occasions. Whether at a beachside taverna in Greece or a rustic Italian trattoria, branzino is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It pairs beautifully with a light white wine or a crisp ros, making it a perfect choice for a summer dinner. In fine dining restaurants, branzino may also be served as part of a multi-course meal, often alongside other Mediterranean specialties like grilled vegetables, couscous, or risotto.

Interesting Facts

1. The name "branzino" comes from the Italian word for sea bass, and it is a popular dish not only in Italy but across the entire Mediterranean region.
2. Branzino is a lean source of protein, with each serving providing over 50 grams of protein while remaining low in fat and calories.
3. This fish is known for its ability to absorb the flavors of herbs and spices, which is why it's often roasted with fresh lemon, garlic, and rosemary.
4. In Italy, branzino is often paired with local vegetables like artichokes, zucchini, and tomatoes, creating a balanced and nutritious meal.
5. In ancient times, the Romans were known to favor Mediterranean sea bass, and it is often mentioned in classical Roman texts as a prized fish.

FAQ about Branzino Mediterranean Recipe

Leftover Branzino Mediterranean can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure the fish is fully cooled before storing. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, but be cautious not to overcook it, as fish can dry out easily.

Yes, you can freeze cooked Branzino Mediterranean. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in an airtight freezer bag or container. It will stay good for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up in the oven at a low temperature to maintain its moisture.

If you can't find Branzino, you can substitute it with another firm white fish like sea bass, snapper, or even tilapia. Just make sure the fish is of similar size and thickness so the cooking time remains consistent.

Yes, grilling Branzino is a great alternative. To do this, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the fish on a lightly oiled grill, flipping it once halfway through cooking. Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish.

Yes! You can add vegetables like tomatoes, celery, peppers, or zucchini to the baking pan or the fish cavity for extra flavor. Just ensure the vegetables are chopped into even pieces so they cook at the same rate as the fish.

The fish is done when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You can also use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part of the fish.

Branzino Mediterranean pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, a light salad with lemon vinaigrette, or a simple grain like quinoa or couscous. You can also serve it with a side of herbed potatoes or rice pilaf.

Yes, you can substitute dried oregano for fresh, but use about one-third of the amount. For example, instead of 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano, use about 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.

To enhance the flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a bit of spice or extra minced garlic for a more robust taste. You can also marinate the fish for about 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking to allow the flavors to meld.

You can prepare the dish in advance by prepping the ingredients and stuffing the fish. Store the stuffed fish in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop and makes the cooking process quicker when you're ready to bake.

Comments

Conrad

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

Thank you for the recipe! Made it just like you describe... well almost. I 'zested' up some of the lemon and mixed it with the onion that I put into the cavity. Other than that... Bottom line is the fish was a BIG hit! Gonna have to buy more bronzino (bronzini?) soon. Thanks!

Carol

05/06/2017 02:53:27 AM

I should rate this as 5 star, but I used every flavor suggestions listed within the reviews. I also baked at 400 for about 40 mins. My two good size whole branzino were the perfect temperature. The tomato,onion, lemon , garlic and oregano was just wonderful flavor...um um good. Will make this again, maybe on the grill.

Higama916

12/04/2020 08:30:07 AM

It was delicious and fairly easy to make. I added tomatoes and red pepper flakes like it said on notes. I also added additional lemon juice and baked at 350 for an additional 15 min then broiled it for another 5 mins to get the top a little coloring.

Jenn

03/12/2018 02:40:14 AM

Excellent! I didn’t think it would come out as good as it did. I followed the recipe to the T with the exception of the oven temp and cooking time. I cooked on Conv Bake at 400° and about 50 minutes. My Branzino were 1 lb. with the head (which I had taken off). I sprinkled sea salt on the top of the Branzino before it went in the oven. Highly recommend!

tony kay

11/06/2015 03:22:20 PM

Great and easy to make. I had to cook longer than 25 closer to 35-40. Great tasty fish. For sauce I usually make a blend with yellow mustard and olive oil lemon parsley and onions all mix well in a blender.

lizm

10/04/2017 02:15:31 PM

I made it with the tomatoes and celery inside. And based on other reviews cooked at 400 and ended up taking a total of 50 min. It was incredibly moist and delicious. We cannot wait to make it again!!

Iron Chef

01/06/2019 03:59:10 PM

The temperature was way too low as others have commented on. After 25 min at 325 degrees the fish was still raw. Turned the fish over and increased temp to 400 degrees and put on bottom rack for another 25 min and was just about done. Will try at 400 degrees on the bottom rack next time. Very clean tasting fish.

debbieadams60

12/25/2021 10:41:04 PM

I made everything in advance then let it marinate in the refrigerator for about an hour in all of it’s ingredients. It’s so much better this way and you can taste the difference!

Carol

01/18/2020 01:33:18 AM

Divided this recipe in half for just my husband and me. Only substitutions were sweet onions and dried oregano because they were what I had on hand, and it still turned out amazing. Took longer (40 min. total) than anticipated at 325 degrees. Next time, will try baking at 350 degrees. What a moist, delicious recipe!

milenapink

06/16/2018 01:01:25 AM

Omg ! Best recipe the white wine just added so much flavor. Made it for tonight’s dinner & the whole family loved it. Although I cooked it on 400 degrees for 30 mins to get it nicely golden brown the inside was so flaky & the cavity came out so easy it just fell off! Thanks for the recipe !!

RubyPie5493

04/04/2025 03:18:16 AM

I also made use of the cook's and reviewer notes, I cooked it at 400 for 40 minutes, and added tomatoes, garlic, and celery. Also sprinkled salt and pepper over it before putting in the oven. Fish was so tender and delicious!

Ray

09/20/2025 04:25:44 AM

This is a wonderful dish for an easy elegant weeknight dinner. Simple delicious easy to make, plus the elegance of it. Pairs well with a well-chilled Prosecco

John Cameron

09/15/2025 01:09:08 AM

Made this for Sunday supper. My partner raved. We both agreed it was delicious, and a special dish!

RubyPie5493

04/04/2025 03:18:16 AM

Shaw Kitty

12/11/2024 02:07:55 AM

Other than needing more salt, the ingredients to make this fish dish were very good. I did add some red pepper flakes as suggested by the "Cook's Note". I just wish I had had better quality pieces of fish to bake, however, which is not the fault of the recipe's author. I find that fish quality can be unpredictable and I doubt our grocery stores have complete control over this.

Raymond Taylor

12/08/2024 10:04:32 PM

Made it with friends — epic win.

Ronald Adams

09/25/2024 11:39:15 PM

Tastes like it took hours, but it didn’t.

Rebekah Cobbett

11/20/2023 10:51:50 PM

Absolutely amazing! Found the fish at Costco and never made it. It’s very light and flaky, wonderful flavor. I added minced garlic and herbs also a little fish sauce and it was delicious!

RedYeast2756

04/13/2022 05:46:46 PM

Amazing! Brought back memories of dining in an Italian restaurant in Sardinia & Bella Napoli. Easy to make also

Kenneth Cowan

08/15/2021 06:39:36 PM

Za'atar & oregano & thyme. Excellent fish for any occasion.

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Branzino Mediterranean Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Cook's Note

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Origin and History

Regional Variations

Differences from Similar Dishes

Where It's Typically Served

Interesting Facts

FAQ about Branzino Mediterranean Recipe