Description
This baked whole fish recipe showcases a flavorful fish seasoned with garlic butter, fresh herbs, and lemon slices. It’s an elegant and simple dish that highlights the fish’s natural flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole fish (about 2–3 pounds, such as snapper or sea bass), cleaned and scaled
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or dill) for stuffing the fish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the fish under cold water, removing any scales and guts. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Make a few diagonal cuts on each side of the fish with a sharp knife.
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper inside the cavity and on the outside. Add paprika if desired.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, and half of the chopped parsley until well combined.
- Spoon some garlic butter mixture inside the fish cavity, adding lemon slices and fresh herbs if desired.
- Coat the outside of the fish with the remaining garlic butter, ensuring it gets into the scored cuts.
- Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet or in a large baking dish.
- Place the fish on the prepared baking sheet and top with any leftover lemon slices.
- Sprinkle any remaining fresh herbs over the fish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Halfway through baking, baste the fish with melted butter from the baking dish.
- Remove the fish from the oven when done; the skin should be crispy and the flesh opaque.
- Sprinkle remaining chopped parsley over the fish and add extra lemon slices if desired.
- Transfer the fish to a serving platter and serve whole or fillet at the table. Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Fish: Look for fresh fish with clear eyes and shiny skin.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to use different herbs and spices to customize the dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes