Elevate Your Dinner Table: A Delicious Baked Sea Bream Recipe

When it comes to seafood, few dishes rival the simple elegance of baked sea bream. Known for its tender, flaky flesh and mild flavor, sea bream is a popular choice in Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this baked sea bream recipe is both easy to prepare and sure to impress your dinner guests. Let’s dive into the details!

Why Sea Bream?

Sea bream is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. Its delicate flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of herbs and spices, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Plus, it’s a sustainable fish option, which is a win-win for both your health and the environment!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this baked sea bream recipe, you will require the following ingredients:

• 2 whole sea bream (cleaned and scaled, about 1-1.5 pounds each)
• 2 lemons (1 for slicing, 1 for juice)
• 4 cloves of garlic (thinly sliced)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or dill—feel free to mix!)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• A pinch of red chili flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Cherry tomatoes (optional, for added sweetness and color)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your sea bream gets that perfect golden-brown finish.

2. Prepare the Fish

Rinse the sea bream under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, make a few diagonal slashes on each side of the fish. This not only helps the flavors to penetrate but also aids in even cooking.

3. Season the Fish

Rub the olive oil all over the fish, ensuring you coat both the outside and the insides. Squeeze half a lemon’s juice into the cavity of each fish, and then season generously with salt and black pepper.

4. Stuff the Fish

Inside each fish, place a few slices of garlic and a handful of your chosen herbs. If you’re using cherry tomatoes, you can add a handful into the cavity as well for a burst of flavor and color.

5. Arrange for Baking

Place the fish on a large baking tray lined with parchment paper (for easy cleanup!). Lay additional lemon slices on top of the fish, and if desired, scatter some more garlic and herbs around them. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle a bit more olive oil on top.

6. Bake in the Oven

Slide the tray into the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is opaque and easily flakes with a fork. If you’re using smaller fish, check for doneness a bit earlier.

7. Add Finishing Touches

Once the fish is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. You can garnish with additional fresh herbs, a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Baked sea bream is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with a range of sides:

• Mediterranean quinoa salad with cucumbers, olives, and feta
• Steamed seasonal vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans
• Crispy roasted potatoes for a hearty complement
• Light green salad with a vinaigrette drizzled over it

This baked sea bream recipe not only makes for a nutritious meal but also brings a touch of elegance to your dining experience. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in. The simplicity of this dish allows its fresh flavors to shine, transporting you to a sun-kissed coast with every bite.

So, next time you’re in the mood for seafood, grab some fresh sea bream and give this recipe a try. Bon appétit!