Branzino Fillet Recipe: Unbelievably Easy & Delicious!
A light, flavorful, and easy branzino fillet recipe featuring crispy golden skin, flaky fish, and a rich garlic lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired dish is simple yet gourmet.
Equipment
- Cast-iron or nonstick skillet for the best sear
- Cutting board & knife for prepping the fish & garnishes
- Measuring spoons & cups for seasonings & sauces
- Tongs or spatula to flip the fillets easily
- Small bowl for mixing lemon butter sauce
Ingredients
For the Branzino Fillet:
- 2 branzino fillets skin-on
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or oregano
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for pan-searing
For the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup white wine optional, for extra depth
- 1 tablespoon capers optional, for a briny flavor boost
Optional Garnishes & Add-Ins:
- Cherry tomatoes halved (adds sweetness & color)
- Fresh parsley chopped (for a bright finish)
- Lemon slices for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fillets
- 1️⃣ Pat the branzino fillets dry using a paper towel—this helps achieve crispy skin.
- 2️⃣ Season both sides with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and fresh thyme.
- 3️⃣ Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over the fillets.
- 💡 Pro Tip: Let the fillets rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to ensure even cooking!
Step 2: Pan-Sear the Branzino
- 4️⃣ Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
- 5️⃣ Place fillets skin-side down and press gently with a spatula for the first 30 seconds to keep them flat.
- 6️⃣ Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- 7️⃣ Flip the fillets and add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the pan.
- 8️⃣ Cook for another 2-3 minutes, basting with melted butter for extra flavor.
- 💡 Want more sauce? Add ¼ cup white wine and let it reduce slightly for a light, flavorful finish.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
- 9️⃣ Remove fillets from the skillet and set them aside.
- 🔟 In the same pan, add butter, lemon zest, white wine, and capers (if using).
- 1️⃣1️⃣ Simmer for 1-2 minutes, stirring to combine flavors.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
- 1️⃣2️⃣ Place the branzino fillets on serving plates.
- 1️⃣3️⃣ Drizzle with the garlic lemon butter sauce.
- 1️⃣4️⃣ Garnish with fresh parsley, cherry tomatoes, and lemon slices.
- 💡 Pair this with our Garlic Butter Asparagus for a delicious side dish!
Notes
✅ Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- If freezing, wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, covered with a damp paper towel.
- Grilled Branzino: Cook over medium-high heat on a grill for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Baked Branzino: Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.