Crisp Branzino with Spinach Recipe

Name: Crisp Branzino with Spinach
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons; 1 large shallot, minced; 2 tablespoons chicken stock or low-sodium broth; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons drained capers, rinsed and coarsely chopped; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 3 tablespoons minced chives; 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oi; Two 1 1/4-pound whole branzino, cleaned and scaled; Salt; 4 garlic cloves2 chopped, 2 thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon thyme leaves, chopped; 1/2 pound baby spinach

Servings: persons

1 stick cold unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons
1 large shallot, minced
2 tablespoons chicken stock or low-sodium broth
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons drained capers, rinsed and coarsely chopped
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
3 tablespoons minced chives
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oi
Two 1 1/4-pound whole branzino, cleaned and scaled
Salt
4 garlic cloves2 chopped, 2 thinly sliced
1 teaspoon thyme leaves, chopped
1/2 pound baby spinach

1
In a small saucepan, cook 2 tablespoons of the butter over moderate heat until browned and nutty-smelling, about 6 minutes.
2
Add the shallot and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
3
Stir in the stock, lemon juice, capers and Worcestershire.
4
Stir in 5 tablespoons of the butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, until incorporated.
5
Stir in the chives.
6
Remove the sauce from the heat and keep warm.
7
In a very large skillet, heat 1/4 cup of the olive oil over moderately high heat until shimmering.
8
Season the fish with salt and cook until browned on the bottom, about 5 minutes.
9
Flip the fish and cook, basting with the oil in the skillet, until a small knife inserted in the center of the fish near the bone feels warm to the touch and the flesh is opaque, about 3 minutes.
10
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet along with the chopped garlic and thyme and continue basting for 30 seconds.
11
Carefully transfer the fish to plates.
12
Wipe out the skillet and heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat.
13
Add the spinach and cook, stirring, until wilted, about 30 seconds.
14
Stir in the sliced garlic and season with salt.
15
Spoon the spinach alongside the fish and serve with the sauce.

383

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cut into tablespoons, 1 large shallot, minced, 2 tablespoons chicken stock or low-sodium broth, 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, and more.

Yes, Crisp Branzino with Spinach falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Crisp Branzino with Spinach

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions