Sea Bass With Mint
Delicately baked sea bass stuffed with mint and lemon breadcrumbs offers fresh, aromatic flavors perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wipe fish with paper towels. Sprinkle inside and out with salt and pepper.
- Chop 2 tablespoons mint leaves; reserve remaining leaves.
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped mint, butter or margarine, bread crumbs, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the mint mixture into the fish cavity.
- Place the fish in a baking dish and brush with olive oil.
- Arrange remaining mint leaves over the fish, overlapping to cover it.
- Pour white wine around the fish and cover with foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until the fish turns opaque and begins to flake when pierced with a fork.
- Arrange mint sprigs along the sides of a platter.
- Place the fish in the center of the platter.
- Arrange lemon slices down the center of the fish.
- Serve with a dry white wine.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the sea bass is fresh for the best flavor. If you don't have fresh mint, consider using parsley or basil as substitutes, though they will change the flavor profile. For an extra layer of flavor, you can add minced garlic to the stuffing. Additionally, if you prefer a crispier texture, broil the fish for the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sea bass on a large platter garnished with fresh mint sprigs and lemon slices for a vibrant presentation. Accompany it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a dry white wine, enhancing the flavors. For a delightful variation, consider browsing more Mediterranean recipes that feature fish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sea bass can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a baking dish covered with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through without drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sea Bass With Mint contains roughly 618 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen sea bass for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sea bass, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. The texture may vary slightly compared to fresh fish, but it will still work well with the stuffing and flavors.
What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with vegetable or chicken broth for moisture and flavor. You can also use a splash of lemon juice mixed with water to achieve a similar acidity that complements the fish.
How do I know when the fish is done cooking?
The sea bass is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Keep an eye on it as cooking times can vary based on the size of the fish and your oven's calibration.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).