🍋 Lemon & Thyme Roasted Sea Bass
📝 Description
This elegant yet simple dish features tender, flaky sea bass infused with fresh lemon and earthy thyme. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the fish while keeping it moist and delicate. It’s light, aromatic, and perfect for a healthy, restaurant-quality meal at home.
🐟 Ingredients
- 2 whole sea bass (cleaned) or 2 fillets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3–4 garlic cloves (sliced)
- 1 lemon (sliced + extra juice)
- 4–5 fresh thyme sprigs
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 small onion (sliced, optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven
Set oven to 200°C (400°F). - Prepare the fish
Pat the sea bass dry. Score the skin lightly if using whole fish. - Season
Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place garlic slices, lemon slices, and thyme inside the fish (or over fillets). - Arrange for roasting
Place fish on a baking tray. Add onion slices underneath if using. - Roast
Bake for 15–20 minutes (depending on size) until the fish is flaky and cooked through. - Finish
Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the fish before serving.
❓ Q/A
Q: Can I use another fish?
Yes, try snapper, tilapia, or cod if sea bass isn’t available.
Q: How do I know it’s cooked?
The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Q: Can I cook it in a pan instead?
Yes, pan-sear fillets skin-side down first, then finish in the oven.
Q: What sides go well with this?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
Best served fresh, but you can prep the fish and seasonings in advance.