Grilled Branzino – A Simple and Elegant Seafood Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Branzino is a Mediterranean classic that transforms a delicate whole fish into a flavorful, elegant main course. With its tender, flaky flesh and mild taste, branzino is the perfect canvas for fresh herbs, citrus, and olive oil. Grilling enhances the natural flavors, adding a subtle smokiness and crisp skin that contrasts beautifully with the moist interior. This recipe is not only delicious but also remarkably simple, requiring minimal preparation while delivering restaurant-quality results. Perfect for summer gatherings, dinner parties, or a light weeknight meal, grilled branzino pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or simple grains. Its presentation—served whole with golden, crispy skin—makes it a showstopper, yet its preparation is approachable enough for home cooks of all levels. If you’re looking for a healthy, flavorful, and sophisticated seafood dish, grilled branzino is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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Ingredients

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

Whole branzino (cleaned and scaled) – The star of the dish, branzino has a delicate flavor and cooks beautifully on the grill.

Olive oil – Keeps the fish moist, prevents sticking, and adds a rich, fruity note.

Garlic – Infuses the fish with aromatic depth when tucked inside the cavity.

Lemon – Slices bring brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the fish.

Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary) – Add freshness and earthy notes to the branzino.

Sea salt – Enhances the natural flavor of the fish.

Black pepper – Provides a mild heat that complements the delicate branzino.

Optional chili flakes – For a touch of heat, if desired.

Directions

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Pat the branzino dry with paper towels, then drizzle with olive oil inside and out. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper. Stuff the cavity of each fish with lemon slices, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs. Place the fish directly on the grill and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, depending on the size, until the skin is crispy and the flesh flakes easily with a fork. Carefully transfer to a platter, drizzle with more olive oil, and garnish with additional lemon wedges and herbs. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2 people per whole fish. Preparation takes 10 minutes, and grilling requires 10–12 minutes. In under 25 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality seafood dish ready to enjoy.

Storage/reheating

Grilled branzino is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a 325°F oven for 8–10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it will dry out the delicate flesh. Leftover branzino can also be flaked and added to salads, pasta, or grain bowls.

Variations and Customizations

Mediterranean style – Add capers, olives, and cherry tomatoes for a bright, briny touch.

Herb butter finish – Top with garlic-herb butter for extra richness.

Asian-inspired – Marinate with soy sauce, ginger, and scallions before grilling.

Spicy citrus glaze – Brush with a chili-lime glaze for heat and tang.

Stuffed branzino – Add fennel, onion, or spinach inside the cavity for a heartier version.

Simple salt-crust grilling – Coat the fish in coarse salt before grilling for ultra-flavorful, moist results.

Grilled fillets – Use fillets instead of whole fish for easier serving.

Smoky paprika rub – Season with smoked paprika and cumin for earthy depth.

Lemon herb marinade – Marinate in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before grilling for added flavor.

Crispy oven version – Roast in a high-heat oven if grilling isn’t an option.

FAQs

What is branzino?

Branzino, also called European sea bass, is a mild, flaky white fish common in Mediterranean cooking.

Do I need to scale and gut the fish myself?

Most fishmongers will clean and scale the fish for you—ask when purchasing.

Can I grill branzino in foil?

Yes, grilling in foil prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier, though the skin will be less crispy.

How do I know when branzino is cooked?

The flesh should be opaque, flake easily, and reach an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I use fillets instead of whole fish?

Yes, though grilling whole enhances flavor and presentation.

Conclusion

Grilled Branzino is a light, flavorful, and elegant seafood dish that celebrates the simplicity of fresh ingredients. With its delicate flesh, crispy skin, and aromatic stuffing, it’s a recipe that impresses without requiring complicated techniques. Whether served at a summer cookout or as a refined dinner centerpiece, grilled branzino delivers both visual appeal and outstanding flavor. A perfect balance of healthy and delicious, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

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