Ingredients
Fish
- 2 whole sea bass (gutted)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 garlic cloves (peeled & crushed)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup fresh parsley (flat leaf, finely chopped)
- 1 lemon (sliced)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the sea bass.
- Prepare Fish: Rinse the whole gutted sea bass under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. Score the skin lightly on both sides to allow flavors to penetrate.
- Season Fish: Rub the sea bass inside and out with salt and black pepper to taste. Stuff the garlic cloves and half of the chopped parsley inside the cavity of each fish for aromatic flavor.
- Arrange Fish for Baking: Place the sea bass on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the fish and arrange the lemon slices on top and inside the cavity where possible.
- Bake Fish: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the sea bass for about 20-25 minutes, or until the flesh is opaque and easily flakes with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the fish from the oven, sprinkle the remaining chopped parsley over the top for freshness, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh sea bass from a reliable fishmonger or seafood market.
- You can adjust seasoning amounts based on your taste preferences.
- Extra virgin olive oil not only enhances flavor but also helps keep the fish moist during baking.
- Removing the fish skin is optional; the skin crisps up nicely when baked.
- Serve with lemon wedges on the side for extra citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat