Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Mediterranean paradise with this mouthwatering roasted sea bream recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny coastal shores! Imagine a dish so simple yet incredibly elegant, it'll make you feel like a professional chef with just a few ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this lemon and olive oil infused sea bream is about to become your new favorite seafood recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 sea bream, cleaned
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for roasting sea bream, ensuring a crispy skin and tender flesh.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the sea bream. Rinse the fish under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a crispy skin during roasting.
- Once the fish are dry, place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to make three diagonal slashes on each side of the fish. This allows the seasoning to penetrate and helps the fish cook evenly.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over each sea bream, ensuring they are well-coated. Rub the oil into the fish, including the slashes, to enhance the flavor.
- Season the fish generously with salt and pepper, both inside the cavity and on the skin. This will enhance the natural flavor of the sea bream.
- Take the lemons and slice them into thin rounds. Insert a few lemon slices into the cavity of each fish. This adds moisture and a bright flavor to the fish as it cooks.
- Arrange the remaining lemon slices on top of the fish. This not only adds flavor but also creates an attractive presentation.
- Place the prepared sea bream on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a lightly greased baking dish. This will prevent the fish from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the lemon slices on top of the fish for added richness and flavor.
- Carefully place the baking sheet or dish in the preheated oven. Roast the sea bream for about 25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The skin should be golden and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the sea bream from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
- To serve, transfer the roasted sea bream to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for a pop of color and additional flavor.
- Enjoy your roasted sea bream with lemon and olive oil alongside your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Always choose fresh sea bream with clear eyes and a clean, oceanic smell to ensure the best flavor and quality.
- Pat the fish completely dry before seasoning to achieve that coveted crispy skin. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- Don't be afraid to make those diagonal slashes on the fish - they're not just for looks. They help seasonings penetrate and ensure even cooking.
- Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor profile. The oil's quality can make a significant difference in the final taste.
- Monitor your fish closely during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Sea bream can quickly go from perfectly cooked to overdone.
- Let the fish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Fresh herbs are not just a garnish - they add a burst of freshness and complexity to the dish. Don't skip them!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 489kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg
