Oven-Roasted Sea Bass

Ingredients

• 2 sea bass fillets, about 6-8 oz each and 1-2 inches thick
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, lightly smashed or thinly sliced
• 4 thin lemon slices, plus wedges for serving
• 1 tablespoon butter, divided
• Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the oven. Preheat to 400°F. Line a small sheet pan with parchment or lightly oil a baking dish.
2. Prepare the fish. Pat the fillets very dry. Rub with olive oil and season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Add aromatics. Place the fish on the pan. Top with garlic, lemon slices, herbs, and small dots of butter.
4. Roast. Bake for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness. A thinner fillet may finish in 9-11 minutes.
5. Check doneness. Remove when the thickest part reaches 130-135°F and flakes with gentle pressure. Rest 3 minutes before serving.
6. Finish. Spoon the pan juices over the fish and add a squeeze of fresh lemon.