Mediterranean Stuffed Sea Bass with Fennel, Citrus & Herb Crust
Whole sea bass stuffed with aromatic herbs, fennel, and citrus, roasted to perfection. The skin crisps beautifully while the flesh stays tender and flavorful. A Mediterranean Christmas centerpiece that’s light, impressive, and totally festive.
⏱ Time Required
Prep: 20 minutes
Stuffing & Seasoning: 10 minutes
Roast: 25–30 minutes
Total: ~1 hour
🧺 Ingredients
For the Fish
2 whole sea bass, cleaned and scaled (~400–500 g each)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 lemon, thinly sliced
1 orange, thinly sliced
Stuffing
1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp capers, rinsed
1 tsp dried oregano
Herb Citrus Crust
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp orange zest
1 tsp finely chopped rosemary
¼ tsp black pepper
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Stuffing
Mix fennel, garlic, parsley, dill, capers, and oregano in a bowl. Set aside.
2️⃣ Stuff the Fish
Season inside the cavity with salt and pepper.
Place a few slices of lemon and orange, then add the herb-fennel stuffing.
Drizzle with a little olive oil.
3️⃣ Apply Herb Citrus Crust
Mix olive oil, lemon & orange zest, rosemary, and black pepper.
Brush over the outside of the fish.
4️⃣ Roast
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place fish on a lined baking tray. Roast 25–30 minutes until cooked through (flesh should flake easily).
5️⃣ Serve
Transfer fish to a platter, garnish with extra fresh herbs and citrus slices.
Pair with roasted vegetables or a light couscous salad for a complete Mediterranean Christmas feast.
🌿 Chef Tips
Use fresh, firm fish for best results.
Make extra citrus slices—they brighten the plate beautifully.
Serve immediately for crispy skin; leftovers can be gently reheated.
❓ frequently asked questions FAQ
Can I use other fish?
Yes — branzino, dorado, or even salmon fillets work.
Make ahead?
Stuff fish in the morning and roast just before serving.
Vegetarian version?
Try stuffed roasted eggplant or whole roasted cauliflower with similar herbs and citrus.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 40 g
Healthy Fats: 18 g
Carbs: 6 g