Easy Delicious Citrus Branzino

I love this Easy Delicious Branzino recipe. Branzino is a favorite fish and if you have never tried branzino, please do. Also known as Mediterranean Bass, it is a light, white fish that does not have a “fishy taste”. Sometimes it is compared to Chilean sea bass. Unlike sea bass, branzino is actually part of the bass family. Less meaty than sea bass, the light texture is perfect for soaking in flavors. Olive Sunshine’s Easy and Delicious Citrus marinade is a sweet and subtle compliment to branzino.

What is Branzino?

You may be asking, what is Branzino? Branzino is very popular in Italy and Greece as the fish thrives in the Mediterranean Sea. I had branzino was in Italy. It was served whole and stuffed. It was incredible and beautiful. All of the things that make me love eating fresh fish in Italy with views of the sea. One day I will perfect my technique of cooking a whole, stuffed fish and will share it here. But for today, using fresh branzino already fileted for me is easy and delicious and brings back all of those sweet memories. Now I am sure you are asking, how to prepare branzino?

The Ingredients for Citrus Branzino

It is not common to find frozen branzino. You may have to purchase it from a local fish monger or sea food shop. I promise it will be worth the committment to find. After you find the branzino, how to prepare branzino is easy. Simple ingredients include thinly sliced shallot, an orange zested and cut into think slices, a handful of fresh oregano, the citrusy marinade and a beautiful mix of greens.

Also known as wild Marjoram, I use Italian oregano. It is more mild than other types of oregano but still provides that flavorful aroma and herby taste so nice on this light fish. If you do not have Italian oregano, or any oregano for that matter, feel free to use any fresh herb you have on hand. Basil, parsely or dill would work nicely.

The marinade is the “secret sauce” of the dish. It is also the dressing for the greens – what can be more simple? I use infused extra virgin olive oil and vinegars. Only buying quality extra virgin oils and vinegars, the infused ingredients do not bring in any negative elements like sodium or added sugars. Infusing oils vinegars with fresh herbs, fruits and spices enhances the flavor. You can also make your own infused extra virgin olive oil or vinegars. This recipe uses infused products, but I will give a simple substitution after the recipe. It will still be delicous and citrusy and easy!

Easy, Delicious Citrus Branzino

I am fortunate to live in sunny Florida. My Sweetheart, Mark, and I love to wake up on a Saturday morning to enjoy the sunshine and ocean breeze. Piling into the Jeep, we head up to our favorite Farmer’s Market. We feel incredibly fortunate when Vickie, our favorite Fish Monger, has branzino. She sets up her wares right at Peterson’s Market. There we are able to buy the absolute best fresh mixed greens – crispy and bursting with robust flavor. It is the perfect bed to serve this delicate fish. Getting home around lunch time, it takes me a few minutes to whip up the marinade. Mark starts the grill. Ten minutes later we are sitting down to lunch. It is our own little make-pretend Mediterranean seaside treat. Follow Olive Sunshine on Facebook.