Benefits:
Branzino (Mediterranean sea bass) is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and keep the skin hydrated and supple. Potatoes offer potassium and vitamin C, while olives provide vitamin E and polyphenols to protect against environmental skin stressors.
Skin Concern: Dryness, irritation, early signs of aging
Prep Time: 40 minutes | Serves: 2
Ingredients:
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2 whole branzino, cleaned and scaled (or 2 fillets)
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 lemon, sliced
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3 garlic cloves, smashed
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2 sprigs fresh oregano or thyme
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Sea salt and black pepper to taste
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2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, cubed
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tbsp olive oil (for potatoes)
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1/3 cup mixed pitted olives
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1 tbsp capers
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1 tbsp fresh parsley
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1 tsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp olive oil (for tapenade)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- On a baking sheet, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 30–35 minutes, until golden and crisp.
- While the potatoes cook, place the branzino on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Stuff the cavity (or top the fillets) with lemon slices, garlic, and herbs. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the flesh flakes easily.
- To make the olive tapenade, pulse the olives, capers, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor or finely chop and mix by hand.
- Serve the roasted branzino with a spoonful of tapenade and a side of crispy herb potatoes.
- Garnish with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Shopping Tips:
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Branzino: Ask for sustainably sourced whole branzino or fillets from a fishmonger.
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Olives: Choose a mix of green and kalamata olives without added preservatives.
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Potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes roast beautifully and have a creamy texture.
Cooking Tips:
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For extra crispy potatoes, parboil them for 5 minutes before roasting.
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Branzino cooks quickly—check it early to avoid overcooking.
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Tapenade can be made up to 3 days ahead and used on grilled veggies or toast.
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is as elegant as it is skin-loving, giving you hydration, brightness, and balance in every nourishing bite.
