Short Description

Tender, flaky sea bass fillet seared to golden perfection, drizzled with a rich lemon garlic butter sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. This elegant yet simple dish bursts with Mediterranean flavor and pairs beautifully with rice or roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pan-seared sea bass recipe is a standout for its crisp skin, delicate interior, and bold, yet balanced, lemon garlic butter sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a restaurant-quality dish made right in your kitchen with minimal ingredients and effort. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s both health-conscious and indulgent. Serve it with steamed greens, herbed rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete and impressive meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 sea bass fillets (skin-on, boneless)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 garlic cloves, sliced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Lemon slices, for garnish
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Pat the sea bass fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 3–4 minutes without moving them, until the skin is crispy and golden.
4. Flip the fillets and cook the other side for 2–3 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Transfer to a warm plate.
5. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
6. Once melted, add the sliced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
7. Stir in the lemon juice and let the sauce simmer for 30 seconds.
8. Spoon the sauce over the seared sea bass fillets. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley.
9. Serve immediately with your preferred side dishes.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories per Serving: 310 kcal

Variations

• Herb-Infused Butter: Add thyme, rosemary, or tarragon to the butter while it melts for deeper flavor.
• Chili-Lemon Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of fresh chili with the garlic.
• Citrus Blend: Mix in orange or lime juice with the lemon for a more complex citrus profile.
• White Wine Reduction: Deglaze the skillet with a splash of dry white wine before adding the butter for a richer sauce.
• Grilled Option: Grill the fillets skin-side down over medium heat for a smoky variation, then drizzle with the garlic butter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can compromise texture.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the delicate texture of the fish.

FAQs

What type of sea bass is best for this recipe?

Chilean sea bass or European sea bass (also called branzino) work well. Choose fillets with the skin on for best results.

Do I need to score the skin before cooking?

Scoring is not necessary, but it can help prevent curling and promote even crisping.

Can I substitute another type of fish?

Yes, halibut, snapper, or cod are suitable alternatives. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.

How do I know when the fish is done?

The fillet should flake easily with a fork and be opaque in the center. Avoid overcooking to preserve tenderness.

Why is my fish sticking to the pan?

Ensure your pan is hot and well-oiled before adding the fish. Do not move the fillet until it naturally releases from the surface.

Can I make the sauce separately?

Yes, prepare the sauce in a clean skillet or saucepan and pour over the cooked fish if preferred.

Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbohydrates and pairs well with keto-friendly sides like sautéed greens or cauliflower rice.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter or a mix of olive oil and garlic for a dairy-free version.

What should I serve with sea bass?

Rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement this dish beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce ingredients in advance to reduce cook time.

Conclusion

Pan-seared sea bass with lemon garlic butter is a refined yet approachable dish that brings vibrant flavor and satisfying texture to the table with ease. From the crispy golden skin to the silky, citrus-infused sauce, every element works together to elevate this simple seafood entrée. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy fresh fish at its finest.

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