Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe

If you are looking to impress at dinner with something elegant yet simple, look no further than the Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe. This dish brings together the buttery richness of Chilean sea bass, the brightness of fresh lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the fresh pop of parsley for a flavor combination that feels both luxurious and comforting. It’s a breeze to prepare yet delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for date night, a family feast, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something genuinely delicious and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to elevate the natural taste and tender texture of the fish while adding vibrant color and mouthwatering aroma.

• 4 Chilean sea bass fillets: Known for its rich, buttery texture, it’s the star protein of this dish.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a fruity, smooth layer that helps carry flavors and keeps the fish moist during baking.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Seasoning is key to enhancing the natural seafood flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the delicate fish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant, slightly spicy kick that complements the mildness of the sea bass.
• 1 lemon, sliced: Brings a fresh, zesty brightness that balances the richness of the fish and butter.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of green color and a clean, herbaceous note.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Melts into the fish as it bakes, enriching it with creamy flavor and moisture.

How to Make Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect to gently cook the sea bass, allowing it to become tender without drying out while creating a subtle, tasty crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Fillets

Patting the Chilean sea bass fillets dry with a paper towel removes excess moisture, which helps the seasoning stick and promotes even baking for a luscious texture.

Step 3: Season Generously

Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly on both sides of the fillets. Seasoning here is crucial because it brings out the natural flavors of the fish and ensures every bite is perfectly balanced.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Olive Oil Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic with the olive oil. This mixture will infuse the sea bass with aromatic warmth, enhancing the overall dish with subtle garlicky notes that complement the clean taste of the fish.

Step 5: Coat the Fillets

Rub the garlic and olive oil mixture evenly over each fillet, ensuring every bit of surface is covered. This step locks in moisture and infuses flavor deeply before baking.

Step 6: Assemble for Baking

Place the fillets in a baking dish and top each with a slice of fresh lemon. The lemon slices release their juice during baking, lending a citrusy brightness that cuts through the buttery richness.

Step 7: Add Fresh Parsley

Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the fillets. This fresh herb not only adds visual appeal but also a fragrant lift that perfectly complements the garlic and lemon.

Step 8: Add Butter

Dot the top of each fillet with small pieces of butter. As the butter melts in the oven, it bastes the fish gently, keeping it moist and imparting a silky richness that’s absolutely indulgent.

Step 9: Bake Until Perfect

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know the sea bass is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and the edges have turned an alluring golden color. This timing keeps the fish tender and full of moisture.

Step 10: Serve While Hot

Remove the fish carefully and serve it hot. Garnish with extra lemon slices and chopped parsley if you like to bring an additional burst of freshness and a pretty presentation.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe

Garnishes

Consider adding a few sprigs of fresh parsley or a thinly sliced lemon wheel on top just before serving. These simple touches make the dish look vibrant and inviting while enhancing the citrus-herb aroma that defines this recipe.

Side Dishes

This Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe pairs beautifully with light sides like roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. These accompaniments keep the meal balanced and complement the sea bass without overshadowing it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, serve the sea bass on a bed of sautéed spinach or a colorful quinoa salad. You can also drizzle some of the pan juices over the fish when plating, making every bite extra flavorful and elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from this Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, making for a convenient and delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

To freeze leftovers, wrap the cooked sea bass tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, it will maintain good quality for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the sea bass in a low oven at around 275°F (135°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave on a low setting to avoid drying it out. Adding a small pat of butter before reheating will help retain moisture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Chilean sea bass is prized for its buttery texture, you can substitute with other firm, white fish like cod, halibut, or black cod. Just adjust baking time accordingly as some fish cook faster.

Is the garlic flavor very strong in this recipe?

The garlic is fragrant but not overpowering, thanks to its combination with olive oil and balanced seasoning. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount of garlic or use roasted garlic for a sweeter, softer flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses whole, fresh ingredients without any breading or sauces containing gluten.

What’s the best way to tell when the fish is fully cooked?

The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque all the way through. Chilean sea bass should still be moist inside but fully cooked, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes at 400°F.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, you can assemble the fillets with seasonings, lemon, parsley, and butter, then cover and refrigerate for up to a few hours before baking. Just bring them close to room temperature before cooking for even results.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that’s as stunning to look at as it is to taste, the Oven-Baked Chilean Sea Bass with Lemon, Garlic, and Parsley Recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s simple enough for a weeknight supper yet special enough for celebrations. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll have a new favorite seafood dinner that’s flavorful, fresh, and unforgettable.

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