Garlic-Roasted Branzino with Adjika Spice Paste

This roasted Branzino recipe is so flavorful with a fiery allure of Georgian Adjika spice paste and a squeeze of fresh lemon, it just melts in your mouth!
Ratings
5/5

Prep

10 min

Cook

45 min

Servings

9

This is a recipe for roasted Branzino fish, but can also be used with most other types of fish as well. It is a gluten free and dairy free delight that not only showcases the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Branzino fish but also harnesses the bold flavors of Adjika, a fiery Georgian condiment similar to salsa. 

The star ingredient, the Branzino, is also known as Mediterranean sea bass and it brings a plethora of health benefits to the table. The fish is a superb source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are renowned for their heart-healthy properties. These fats help reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease, and promote brain health. Further, Branzino offers a generous protein content that support muscle development, tissue repair, and overall body maintenance. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a high-protein low-fat meal. It’s also packed with essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium. These nutrients play vital roles in bone health, immune function, and cellular repair. What makes this fish even more appetizing is it’s low-level of mercury, making it a safe and sustainable choice for seafood enthusiasts of all ages. It’s an excellent option for pregnant women and young children. 

Originating in the vibrant culinary landscape of Georgia, Adjika is a fiery and flavorful paste that elevates the garlic-roasted Branzino to new heights. There are many versions of Adjika culturally and spread throughout the region of Eastern Europe. The paste itself boasts a rich blend of ingredients including red pepper, garlic, oregano, and cilantro, all of which are loaded with antioxidants. These compounds help combat free radicals and support overall well-being. The spicy elements can help rev up your metabolism, aiding in weight management and digestive health as well as boost your immune system with the help of garlic’s allicin compound that is known for its antimicrobial and antiviral effects.

This dish overall is a culinary masterpiece that marries health and flavor in perfect harmony. The nutrient-rich Branzino coupled with the fiery allure of Adjika offers a symphony of tastes and benefits. 

Let me know in the comments below if you tried the recipe and if you have any variations you’d like to share!

Garlic-Roasted Branzino with Adjika Spice Paste

RECIPE

Garlic-Roasted Branzino with Adjika Spice Paste

Ingredients

For the Roasted Fish:
  • 3 whole Branzino or Mackerel fish (gutted & cleaned, heat attached is optional)
  • 2 quartered red bell peppers
  • 1 bunch of cilantro
  • 2 sprigs of fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon of dried oregano)
  • 1/2 cup of tomato paste
  • 6-8 garlic cloves (skinned)
  • 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 1/2 tablespoon of ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tablespoon of ground coriander
  • 1/2 tablespoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
  • 2 lemons (each sliced for 4-5 thin wedges)

Directions

For the Roasted Fish:
  1. Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit
  2. Clean and gut the fish (or you can ask your butcher to do this for you), heads are optional
  3. Add a sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil over a baking pan (9″ x 13″)
  4. Add the cleaned Branzinos over the baking pan
  5. In a food processor, add the red bell peppers (2), tomato paste (1/2 cup), garlic cloves (6-8), cilantro (1 bunch), oregano (2 fresh sprigs), spices, olive oil (1 tablespoon), and lemon juice (1/4 cup)
  6. Cover the Branzinos with the spice paste on the interior and exterior
  7. Add lemon wedges inside each of the Branzinos
  8. Place the baking pan in the oven to roast for 45 minutes until the tops have a crunchy golden color
  9. Set the oven to high broil for 2 minutes at the end of the roasting time
  10. Remove the fish from the oven and let it cool down for at least 15 minutes, then remove the spinal cords and serve with fresh squeezed lemon juice
NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)

Garlic-Roasted Branzino with Adjika Spice Paste

Calories: 240 | Total Fat: 16 g | Cholest: 75 mg | Total Carb: 2 g | Protein: 21 g

Click here for full nutrition label

Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.

 
 

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Welcome to my Food Blog!
Hi, I'm Ophelia! Step into my kitchen where I take you on a delightful journey through the flavors of Eastern Europe. Experience my recipes with simplicity from step-by-step instructions and videos.

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