Air-Fryer Whole Branzino

Ingredients

• 1 whole branzino, cleaned, scaled and gutted (about 1 to 1 1/2 lb)
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus wedges for serving
• 1 small handful fresh parsley, dill, thyme or a mixture
• 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced or lightly crushed
• 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: pinch of red-pepper flakes or sweet paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Lightly oil the basket or use perforated air-fryer parchment.
2. Pat the fish extremely dry, inside and out. Make two or three shallow diagonal slashes on each side without cutting to the bone.
3. Rub the fish with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper, including inside the cavity.
4. Stuff the cavity loosely with lemon slices, herbs and garlic. Do not pack it tightly; air should still circulate.
5. Place the fish in the basket. Air fry for 7 minutes, carefully turn it, then cook another 5 to 9 minutes depending on size and thickness.
6. Rest 2 minutes. Finish with fresh lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of flaky salt.