Baked sea bream

Baked Sea Bream – A Simple and Delicious Recipe for a Perfect Dinner

Sea bream is a fish with succulent flesh and refined taste, which has a well-deserved place in the cuisine of many cultures. This baked sea bream recipe is not only simple but also quick, providing you with a delicious, aromatic, and healthy meal for the whole family. Over time, baking fish has become a popular practice due to the way the even heat from the oven penetrates the flesh, making it tender and full of flavor.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 2 medium sea bream (approximately 300-400 g each)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of vinegar (preferably white wine)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- A handful of freshly chopped parsley
- Salt, to taste

Step by step for a perfect sea bream:

1. Preparing the fish: Start by washing the sea bream well under cold running water. It is important to clean the fish of scales and intestines. If you lack experience in this regard, do not hesitate to ask the seller at the market or fishmonger, who will clean the fish for you.

2. Drying and seasoning: After cleaning, dry the sea bream with a kitchen towel. This step is essential as it helps achieve a crispy skin. Rub the fish with olive oil, ensuring that the entire surface is evenly coated. Sprinkle salt on both sides and add a few drops of vinegar to enhance the flavors.

3. Infusing flavors: Using a sharp knife, make a few cuts along the side of the fish, deepening them slightly. In these incisions, insert thin slices of garlic and a bit of chopped parsley. This technique will not only add flavor but also help cook the fish evenly.

4. Baking in the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the sea bream in a baking dish, which can be greased with a little oil to prevent sticking. Bake the fish for 30 minutes. During this time, the aroma of garlic and parsley will blend with that of the fish, creating an irresistible dish.

5. Serving: Once the sea bream is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it warm, garnished with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A glass of white wine will perfectly complement this delicious dinner.

Helpful tips:
- Choosing the fish: When buying sea bream, make sure the fish is fresh. A shiny skin and firm flesh are signs of freshness.
- The vinegar: White wine vinegar adds a note of acidity that balances the fat in the fish. You can also experiment with other types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, but the taste will vary.
- Variations: You can also add other herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to diversify the flavors. Additionally, a slice of lemon inside the fish will add a fresh, citrusy taste.

Nutritional information:
Sea bream is an excellent source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help maintain heart health. It also contains B vitamins and essential minerals such as phosphorus and selenium. This recipe is ideal for those looking for a light yet sumptuous meal with low calories.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I tell if the fish is cooked enough? The fish is done when the flesh turns opaque and easily flakes off the bones.
- Can I use other types of fish? Of course! This recipe works well with other types of white fish, such as dorado or perch.
- What can I do with leftover fish? Leftover sea bream can be used in salads or sandwiches, adding a delicious texture and a source of protein.

Serving suggestions and sides:
To make the meal even more special, I suggest preparing a side of grilled vegetables or a buttery herb mashed potato. A tomato and cucumber salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar will add a fresh and crunchy contrast. Additionally, a yogurt sauce with dill can be an excellent accompaniment for sea bream.

This baked sea bream recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavors and healthy. Enjoy every bite and turn each meal into a celebration of tastes! Bon appétit!