If you’re seeking a light, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make dinner, this Lemon Roasted Sea Bass with Garlic and Rosemary is the perfect choice. Sea bass, with its mild flavor and tender texture, pairs beautifully with the zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and aromatic rosemary. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself to a healthy meal, this dish is a great option for a gourmet experience without the hassle.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Simple Yet Elegant: The combination of lemon and rosemary adds a sophisticated flavor to the mild sea bass, making it feel like a restaurant-quality dish that’s quick and easy to prepare.
- Healthy and Light: Sea bass is a lean source of protein rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and the minimal use of oil and fresh herbs keeps the dish light while maximizing flavor.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With only four main ingredients, this dish delivers a lot of taste without the need for an extensive list of spices or complicated steps.
- Versatile: Serve it with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a green salad, for a complete, balanced meal.
Recipe: Lemon Roasted Sea Bass with Garlic and Rosemary
Ingredients:
- 2 sea bass fillets (about 6-8 oz each)
- 1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Extra lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Sea Bass: Pat the sea bass fillets dry with a paper towel, and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Assemble on Baking Sheet: Place the sea bass fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange the lemon slices on top of the fillets, sprinkle the minced garlic evenly, and lay the rosemary sprigs alongside the fish.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over the fish to help it roast evenly and infuse the flavors.
- Roast: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Health Benefits of Lemon Roasted Sea Bass
- Sea Bass: Sea bass is an excellent source of lean protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Lemon: Packed with vitamin C, lemon not only brightens the dish but also boosts the immune system and aids digestion.
- Garlic: Garlic adds depth to the flavor while also offering antibacterial and antioxidant properties, making it a great addition to any healthy recipe.
- Rosemary: Rosemary is an aromatic herb known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, and it adds a lovely earthy note to the dish.
Customization Ideas
- Use a Different Fish: If you don’t have sea bass, other mild white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia can be used in its place.
- Add Vegetables: Throw in some cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or thinly sliced potatoes onto the baking sheet to roast alongside the fish for an easy one-pan meal.
- Enhance the Garlic Flavor: For an extra garlic punch, add a few whole garlic cloves to the pan to roast alongside the fish. They’ll become soft and buttery, perfect for spreading over the fish or toast.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Lemon Roasted Sea Bass with a variety of sides to make it a complete meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus roasted in the same oven can make for an easy and colorful side.
- Quinoa or Brown Rice: Serve the fish over a bed of quinoa or brown rice to soak up the citrusy juices.
- Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the bright flavors of the fish.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish is not only easy to make but also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping. You can prepare a batch of roasted sea bass, and pair it with different sides throughout the week for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.