Description
A flavorful and easy Chilean Sea Bass recipe featuring perfectly seasoned fillets baked to tender, flaky perfection with a garlic, lemon, and butter sauce. This elegant seafood dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Sea Bass
- 1 pound Chilean sea bass fillets
- 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional and to taste)
- lemon slices to top the fillets
- oregano & parsley to garnish
Butter Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium lemon, zest (zest of 1 lemon)
- 1/2 medium lemon, juiced (juice of 1/2 lemon)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Thoroughly dry the Chilean sea bass fillets using paper towels to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning adherence.
- Season the Sea Bass: In a small bowl, mix 1.5 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using. Generously sprinkle this seasoning evenly over all sides of the sea bass fillets, making sure they are fully coated for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Butter Sauce: In another small bowl, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic, juice of 1/2 lemon, lemon zest from 1 lemon, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir well to combine the flavors into a fragrant sauce.
- Assemble for Baking: Place the seasoned sea bass fillets onto the prepared baking sheet. Pour the butter garlic lemon sauce evenly over the top of the fillets. Lay lemon slices on top of each fillet to add brightness and aroma during baking.
- Bake the Fish: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove from oven and let the fillets rest for several minutes to redistribute juices for optimal moistness.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked sea bass with fresh parsley and oregano sprigs along with additional lemon slices as desired. Spoon any remaining butter sauce from the baking sheet over the fish before serving to enhance flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to preserve texture. Do not freeze to maintain quality.
Notes
- Drying the fillets before seasoning helps achieve better flavor absorption and browning.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the fish is cooked perfectly to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Baking time may vary slightly depending on fillet thickness; adjust accordingly.
- Do not freeze leftovers as texture and flavor may degrade.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
