Tangy Lemon Butter Sea Bass
Introduction:
Welcome to my blog, where we dive into the world of culinary delights with today’s recipe: Tangy Lemon Butter Sea Bass. This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a symphony for your taste buds. The combination of tangy lemon and rich butter complements the delicate texture of sea bass, creating a dish that is both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients:
- 4 whole sea bass fillets (about 1 lb each)
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Start by preheating your oven to ensure that it reaches the optimal temperature for cooking the sea bass. This will help in achieving the perfect texture and flavor of the fish.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce.
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped parsley, chopped dill, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
Step 3: Season the Sea Bass.
Rinse the sea bass fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the fillets generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Sear the Sea Bass.
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the sea bass fillets skin-side down into the skillet. Let them sear for about 3-4 minutes until the skin becomes crispy and golden brown. Flip the fillets over and cook for another minute on the other side.
Step 5: Bake the Sea Bass.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a splash of white wine to the skillet before transferring it to the oven.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish.
Remove the skillet from the oven and spoon the prepared lemon butter sauce over the sea bass fillets. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light green salad dressed with a vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or a simple quinoa pilaf. For a more indulgent experience, you might want to pair it with garlic mashed potatoes or sautéed spinach.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (assuming 4 servings):
| Calories | Total Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|
| 350 kcal | 25g | 3g | 30g |
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
- To prevent the fish from sticking to the pan, make sure the skillet is well-seasoned or use a non-stick skillet.
- If you prefer a less tangy sauce, reduce the amount of lemon juice or omit the red pepper flakes.
Variations:
- For a heartier meal, top the sea bass with a slice of lemon and a sprig of dill before baking.
- You can also experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
Cooking Time:
The total preparation and cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes. With its quick cooking time and impressive presentation, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.
Conclusion:
With its vibrant flavors and tender texture, Tangy Lemon Butter Sea Bass is a dish that will leave your guests impressed. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy your cooking!
