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## **Ingredients**
– 1 whole **branzino** (cleaned and gutted, about 1 ½ lbs)
– 2 tablespoons **olive oil**
– 1 **lemon**, sliced into rounds
– 3 cloves **garlic**, minced
– 1 teaspoon **salt**
– ½ teaspoon **black pepper**
– ½ teaspoon **red pepper flakes** (optional, for a spicy kick)
– 1 teaspoon **dried oregano** or **fresh thyme**
– ½ teaspoon **paprika** (for a hint of smokiness)
– ¼ cup **fresh parsley**, chopped (for garnish)
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## **How to Make Lemon Baked Branzino**
### **Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Fish**
1. Preheat your oven to **400°F (200°C)**.
2. Line a baking sheet with **parchment paper** or lightly grease it with olive oil.
3. Rinse the **branzino** under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
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### **Step 2: Season & Stuff the Branzino**
1. Rub the entire fish (inside and out) with **olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano**.
2. Stuff the cavity of the fish with **lemon slices, minced garlic, and fresh herbs**.
3. Arrange extra lemon slices on top for added citrus flavor.
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### **Step 3: Bake to Perfection**
1. Place the branzino on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for **18-22 minutes**, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
3. For a crispy skin, broil for the last **2-3 minutes**.
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### **Step 4: Garnish & Serve**
– Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes.
– Garnish with **fresh parsley** and an extra squeeze of lemon juice.
– Serve with **roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a side of couscous or rice**.
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## **Tips for the Best Lemon Baked Branzino**
✔ **Use Fresh Fish** – The fresher the fish, the better the flavor!
✔ **Don’t Overbake** – Overcooked fish becomes dry; check for doneness at 18 minutes.
✔ **Enhance with Wine** – Add a splash of **white wine** to the baking dish for extra depth of flavor.
✔ **Pair with a Crisp White Wine** – Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the dish beautifully.
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## **Final Thoughts**
This **Lemon Baked Branzino** is a **light, delicious, and healthy seafood dish** that brings Mediterranean flavors right to your table. With just a few ingredients and a short baking time, it’s an easy way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
💬 **Would you try this dish? Let me know in the comments!** 🍋🐟😊
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