Pan-Roasted Branzino: A Simple, Delicious Dish

Pan-roasted branzino is a simple, delicious, and healthy meal that can be prepared in under 20 minutes. Branzino, also known as European or Mediterranean sea bass, is a white fish with a mild, slightly sweet taste and a flaky texture. It is usually served whole but can also be filleted.

Pan-roasting is a great way to cook branzino, as it helps to keep the fish moist and succulent. The presence of bones and cartilage adds flavour and moisture, and the hot oven ensures even cooking. The fish can be seasoned with basic herbs and spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Cajun spice, and is often served with a squeeze of lemon juice and fresh herbs.

This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a romantic dinner for two. It can be paired with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, salad, or roasted potatoes.

How to make pan-roasted branzino

Branzino is a European or Mediterranean Sea Bass with a mild and slightly sweet taste, similar to other types of sea bass and halibut. It is known for its lean, white, firm meat and is perfect for grilling, roasting, baking, steaming, or pan-searing.

Ingredients:

• 2 branzino fillets
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Butter or oil
• Lemon
• Garlic powder
• Cajun spice
• Parsley

Method:

First, pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. Then, season the fillets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cajun spice.

Next, heat a skillet on medium heat and add butter or oil. Once the butter has melted, or the oil is shimmering, add the branzino fillets, skin side down. Cook the fillets for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the flesh is lightly golden.

Finally, garnish with fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.

Tips:

• To get crispy skin, dry the fish thoroughly with paper towels and let it come to room temperature before cooking.
• Don't overcrowd the pan to prevent steaming.
• Always preheat the skillet before adding the fish.
• Don't salt the fish until just before cooking, as salt draws moisture to the surface.
• To store leftovers, place the fish in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to a month.
• To reheat, place the fish on a lightly greased baking sheet and broil for 1-3 minutes on each side, leaving the oven door ajar.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your pan-roasted branzino with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or roasted potatoes. Enjoy!

What to serve with pan-roasted branzino

Pan-roasted branzino is a simple yet delicious dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas on what to serve with this tasty fish:

Grilled Vegetables

Grilled vegetables are a perfect accompaniment to pan-roasted branzino. You can choose from a variety of veggies such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms. Grilling brings out their natural sweetness and adds a charred flavour that complements the fish.

Fresh Salad

A fresh and crisp salad can help balance out the meal. Opt for a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or go for something more substantial like a Greek salad or a kale salad. The freshness of the vegetables and the zesty dressing will pair well with the flaky fish.

Roasted Potatoes

Potatoes are always a great side dish, and when roasted, they become crispy and golden. You can season them with herbs and spices of your choice, such as rosemary or paprika. The starchiness of the potatoes will go well with the protein-rich branzino.

Lemon Rice

Lemon rice is a great option to consider, especially if you're looking for something a little more filling. The citrusy flavour of the rice pairs beautifully with the branzino, and it also helps to enhance the dish's overall presentation.

Oven-Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted vegetables are another excellent choice to accompany your branzino. Carrots, parsnips, beets, and onions are just a few examples of veggies that can be roasted to perfection. Their natural sweetness intensifies when roasted, creating a delightful contrast with the delicate fish.

Herbed Quinoa

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, herbed quinoa is a fantastic choice. Quinoa is a nutritious grain that can be flavoured with various herbs such as parsley, thyme, or basil. It provides a nice textural contrast to the branzino and absorbs the flavours of the dish beautifully.

Sautéed Spinach

Sautéed spinach is a quick and healthy side dish that goes well with branzino. Spinach is packed with nutrients and has a mild flavour that won't overpower the fish. You can sauté it with garlic and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavour.

Steamed Asparagus

Steamed asparagus is a classic side dish that is simple to prepare and elegant to serve. It has a delicate flavour and a tender texture that pairs well with the branzino. You can drizzle it with a little olive oil and sprinkle on some flaked sea salt and freshly cracked pepper.

Baked Sweet Potato

Baked sweet potatoes are a great way to add some colour and sweetness to your plate. Their vibrant orange flesh provides a beautiful contrast to the white fish, and their natural sweetness is a nice counterbalance to the savoury branzino.

Roasted Broccoli

If you're looking for a nutritious and flavourful side dish, roasted broccoli is an excellent choice. The florets become slightly charred and crispy when roasted, adding a nice texture to the meal. You can season them with garlic, lemon, or your favourite herbs.

Crispy Fried Halloumi

For something a little indulgent and unique, consider serving crispy fried halloumi with your branzino. Halloumi is a type of Cypriot cheese that has a high melting point, allowing it to be fried or grilled until golden brown and crispy. It adds a creamy and salty element to the dish.

How to get crispy skin

The key to achieving crispy skin on your branzino is to ensure that the skin is dry before cooking. Here are the steps you can follow:

Step 1: Dry the Fish

Use paper towels to pat the branzino fillets dry. This step is crucial, as any excess moisture on the skin will prevent it from crisping up during cooking.

Step 2: Season the Fish

Lightly season both sides of the fish with salt and pepper. Be sure to do this just before cooking, as salting too early can draw moisture to the surface of the fish.

Step 3: Heat Your Pan

Use a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, and heat it over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and wait for it to shimmer before adding the fish.

Step 4: Cook the Fish

Place the branzino fillets in the pan, skin-side down. This step is important for achieving crispy skin. Press the fillets gently with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan and maximum browning.

Cook the fish for about 3 minutes on the skin side, then flip and cook the flesh side for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the fish is cooked to your desired doneness.

Step 5: Baste the Fish (Optional)

For added flavor and moisture, you can baste the fish with butter, thyme, and lemon juice. Tilt the pan and use a spoon to baste the fish with the melted butter. Continue cooking for a few seconds until the fish is fully cooked and the skin is crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the branzino to a plate, ensuring the skin side is up. This will help keep the skin crisp while the fish rests. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or roasted potatoes.

By following these steps and paying close attention to the cooking process, you can achieve a crispy skin on your pan-roasted branzino. Enjoy your delicious and crispy branzino!

How to store and reheat leftovers

To store leftover branzino, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to three days. If you don't plan on eating it within that time, you can keep it in the freezer for up to a month.

When you're ready to reheat your branzino, there are a few different methods you can use. You can place the fish on a lightly greased baking sheet and broil it for 1-3 minutes on each side, leaving the oven door slightly ajar. Alternatively, you can add the fish to a sheet of non-stick foil and broil it in the oven for around four minutes, adding a source of moisture or a glaze to protect hydration levels.

You could also break up the leftover fish and add it to another dish, such as a fish stew or fish tacos.

Best branzino substitutes

Branzino, also known as European or Mediterranean sea bass, is a white fish native to the coasts of Europe and Northern Africa. It is often served whole, but can also be filleted.

Branzino can be difficult to find in some areas, so here are some of the best substitutes for this fish:

Red Snapper

Red snapper is a popular substitute for branzino and can be used in a variety of recipes that call for a mild, flaky white fish. It has a similar texture and flavour profile to branzino, making it a good choice for a branzino replacement.

Sea Bass

Sea bass is another good substitute for branzino. It has a light and flaky texture, with a mildly sweet flavour that can take on the flavours of other ingredients in a dish. Chilean sea bass, in particular, is known for its meaty texture and buttery flavour.

Cod

Cod is a mild and flaky white fish that can be used as a substitute for branzino. It has a more subtle flavour compared to branzino, but it is versatile and works well in a variety of dishes.

Striped Bass

Striped bass is another member of the Moronidae family, which includes branzino. It has a similar flavour and texture to branzino, making it a suitable substitute in recipes that call for a light and flaky fish.

Halibut

Halibut is a firm and flaky white fish with a mild flavour. It can be used as a substitute for branzino in recipes that require a light and flaky fish.

In general, any mild, flaky white fish can be used as a substitute for branzino. Simply ask your local fishmonger for their recommendations, as they will know what is available and suitable for your recipe.

Frequently asked questions