Jul 14 2026

Branzino Al Sale Recipe

Time50m
Serves4

Experience the delicate flavors of our Branzino al Sale, a whole branzino expertly baked in a salt crust to lock in moisture and enhance its natural sweetness. Served with a vibrant drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil and accompanied by seasonal vegetables, this dish is a celebration of the sea, offering a tender, flaky texture and a subtle hint of brininess that will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast.

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Ingredients

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Fish

Salt Mixture

Optional Garnish

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. 2

    Prepare the Branzino

    Clean the Branzino and pat it dry with paper towels. Stuff the cavity of the fish with fresh rosemary, thyme, and slices of lemon.

Salt Crust

  1. 3

    Make the Salt Mixture

    In a bowl, mix the coarse sea salt with egg whites until well combined. The mixture should be somewhat wet but hold its shape.

  2. 4

    Prepare the Baking Sheet

    Spread a thin layer of the salt mixture on a baking sheet, large enough to fit the fish.

  3. 5

    Encase the Fish

    Place the prepared Branzino on top of the salt layer. Cover the fish completely with the remaining salt mixture, pressing it down firmly to form a crust.

Baking

  1. 6

    Bake the Fish

    Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of the fish. The salt crust will harden and turn slightly golden.

  2. 7

    Remove from Oven

    Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes.

Serving

  1. 8

    Serve the Fish

    Using a mallet or a heavy spoon, gently crack open the salt crust. Carefully lift off the salt and transfer the fish to a platter. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

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