Teresa's Recipes
Pesce al Forno
Pesce al Forno is a beloved classic from the coastal regions of Italy, where the catch of the day is celebrated with the simplest of preparations. This dish features a whole fish, often branzino or sea bass, baked to perfection with fragrant fresh herbs and zesty lemon, resulting in a succulent and flavorful meal. The delicate aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the kitchen will transport you straight to the Mediterranean. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish embodies the heart and soul of Italian cooking—fresh ingredients, simplicity, and love.
Ingredients
- 1, cleaned and scaled Whole fish (such as sea bass or branzino)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1/4 cup, chopped Fresh parsley
- 2 sprigs Fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs Fresh thyme
- 1, sliced Lemon
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 2
- Dish Type: Main Course
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Sugar: 1g
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Clean the fish thoroughly by removing the scales and insides. Rinse well under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season the inside and outside of the fish generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Stuff the cavity of the fish with lemon slices, chopped parsley, rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and minced garlic. This will infuse the fish with aromatic flavors.
- Drizzle the fish with olive oil, ensuring it’s well-coated, and place it in a baking dish lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Bake the fish in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the fish.
- Once cooked, remove the fish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, drizzled with the delicious cooking juices from the baking dish.
Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can add thinly sliced onions or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your preference, such as dill or basil.