Pan-fried sea bass is a simple yet elegant dish that brings out the delicate, buttery flavor of the fish with a crispy golden crust. It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to a fresh salad, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dinner. The sea bass is seasoned with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, then pan-fried to perfection in a hot skillet. The result is a beautifully seared fish with a crispy skin and tender, flaky interior.
Ingredients:
- 2 sea bass fillets (skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 lemon, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the fish: Pat the sea bass fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot but not smoking, add the sea bass fillets, skin-side down.
- Cook the sea bass: Press the fillets gently to ensure even contact with the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving the fillets, until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip and finish cooking: Carefully flip the fillets and add the minced garlic and butter to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, basting the fillets with the melted butter and garlic. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
- Add lemon: Just before removing the fish from the pan, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the fillets and add the lemon slices to the pan for extra flavor.
- Serve: Transfer the sea bass to a serving plate and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Enjoy your pan-fried sea bass with a fresh, vibrant salad or a side of roasted vegetables!