Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsIl Fornaio SacramentoBranzino In Crosta* Recipe

Branzino In Crosta* Recipe

Time1h
Serves2

mediterranean seabass | basil-panko crust | roasted tomato sauce | grilled asparagus | mashed potatoes

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Ingredients

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Branzino and Crust

Roasted Tomato Sauce

Grilled Asparagus

Mashed Potatoes

Method

Preparation of Branzino

  1. 1

    Prepare the Branzino

    Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Clean and gut the branzino, then pat dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Make the Basil-Panko Crust

    In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are coated.

  3. 3

    Coat the Branzino

    Brush the branzino with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and generously coat the fish with the basil-panko mixture, pressing it onto the surface.

Roasted Tomato Sauce

  1. 4

    Prepare the Tomatoes

    In a baking dish, combine cherry tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the tomatoes.

  2. 5

    Roast the Tomatoes

    Place the baking dish in the oven alongside the branzino. Roast for about 20-25 minutes until the tomatoes are blistered and soft.

  3. 6

    Finish the Sauce

    Remove the roasted tomatoes from the oven and stir in chopped fresh basil. Set aside.

Grilled Asparagus

  1. 7

    Prepare the Asparagus

    While the branzino and tomatoes are roasting, prepare the asparagus by trimming the tough ends. Toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

  2. 8

    Grill the Asparagus

    Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat and grill the asparagus for about 5-7 minutes until tender and slightly charred. Remove from heat.

Mashed Potatoes

  1. 9

    Cook the Potatoes

    Peel and chop the russet potatoes into even pieces. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

  2. 10

    Mash the Potatoes

    Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Assembly

  1. 11

    Plate the Dish

    On serving plates, place a portion of mashed potatoes, a grilled branzino, and a side of grilled asparagus. Spoon the roasted tomato sauce over the branzino. Serve immediately.

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