Mediterranean Lemon Thyme Butter Sea Bass 🍋🐟
Description
Mediterranean Lemon Thyme Butter Sea Bass is a light yet luxurious dish featuring tender sea bass fillets baked in a fragrant sauce of butter, garlic, fresh thyme, and lemon. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this recipe delivers bright citrus notes, aromatic herbs, and flaky fish in every bite. It’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner.
Servings
Serves: 4 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 sea bass fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2
Place sea bass fillets in the dish. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Step 3
Mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme in a small bowl.
Step 4
Pour the butter mixture over the fish and arrange lemon slices around and on top of the fillets.
Step 5
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 6
Spoon the buttery sauce over the fish and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Fresh sea bass provides the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook the fish, as it can become dry.
- Fresh thyme gives a brighter taste than dried thyme.
Tips
✔ Pat the fish dry before seasoning for better browning.
✔ Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled juice.
✔ Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a Mediterranean salad.
✔ Add capers or olives for an extra Mediterranean touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
Approximate values.
Health Benefits
- Rich in high-quality protein for muscle maintenance.
- Contains heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
- Lemon and herbs provide antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Low in carbohydrates and naturally gluten-free.
- Supports brain and heart health.
Q&A
Q: Can I use another fish?
Yes. Cod, halibut, tilapia, or snapper work well.
Q: Can I make this on the stovetop?
Absolutely. Pan-sear the fish for 3–4 minutes per side and spoon the sauce over it.
Q: How do I know the fish is cooked?
The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead?
You can prepare the sauce and season the fish up to 12 hours in advance.