If you’re looking for a light and flavorful dish that feels like summer on a plate, this grilled branzino with tomato salsa is the answer. It’s perfect for entertaining or a casual dinner at home, bringing together the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and tender fish.
This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients and bold tastes. The branzino is grilled to perfection, resulting in a flaky texture that pairs beautifully with the zesty and refreshing salsa. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Imagine serving this dish to your friends and family, with the aroma of grilled fish wafting through the air. It’s sure to impress, and you’ll feel like you’ve just stepped into a seaside restaurant.
Preparing the Branzino
To start this delightful dish, the branzino needs some tender care. Begin by preheating your grill to a medium-high temperature, setting the stage for a smoky flavor to emerge from the fish.
It’s important to rinse the branzino under cold water and dry it thoroughly. This helps achieve that desirable crispy skin when grilled. Scoring the skin is a key step too, as it allows the heat to penetrate evenly, ensuring a perfectly cooked fish.
Seasoning for Flavor
Once the fish is prepped, it’s time to season. Rub each branzino generously with olive oil, which not only enhances flavor but also helps achieve a beautiful char on the grill.
Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper both inside the cavity and on the skin. This simple seasoning elevates the natural taste of the fish, making every bite delicious.
Creating the Tomato Salsa
The fresh tomato salsa is a vibrant contrast to the grilled branzino. Begin by halving cherry tomatoes and combining them with finely chopped red onion and fresh basil in a mixing bowl.
Add the juice of a lemon and a drizzle of olive oil to the mix. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of balsamic vinegar can add a unique depth of flavor. Allowing the salsa to sit for a few minutes helps all those delightful flavors meld together beautifully.
Grilling to Perfection
With the branzino seasoned and salsa prepared, it’s time to hit the grill. Place the fish on the grates, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side. The key is to wait until the fish flakes easily with a fork, indicating it is done.
The grill marks add an appealing visual element, while the aroma wafting through the air will be hard to resist. Don’t rush this step; the perfect char can elevate the dish significantly.
Plating and Serving
After grilling, transfer the branzino to a pristine white platter. This not only showcases the fish but also highlights the vibrant colors of the tomato salsa.
Generously top the fish with the fresh salsa and garnish with sprigs of basil. Serve immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges that can be squeezed over the fish for an extra zing of flavor.
The Mediterranean Experience
This grilled branzino with tomato salsa evokes the sunny Mediterranean coast with every bite. It’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or a casual dinner at home.
This dish captures the essence of summer, allowing everyone to enjoy a taste of the sea, right from their dining table. The combination of flavors is refreshing, and the presentation is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to be served this delightful meal.
A Delightful Summer Dish
The grilled branzino is seasoned to enhance its natural flavor, while the tomato salsa adds a burst of freshness and acidity. Together, they create a dish that’s both satisfying and invigorating, perfect for any seafood lover.
Ingredients
- 2 whole branzino, cleaned and scaled
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons sea salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Branzino: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Score the skin a few times on each side to help the fish cook evenly.
- Season the Fish: Rub the branzino with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season generously with sea salt and black pepper, both inside the cavity and on the skin.
- Make the Tomato Salsa: In a bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, basil, lemon juice, balsamic vinegar (if using), and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Stir gently to combine and season with salt to taste. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Grill the Fish: Place the branzino on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled branzino to a serving platter and top with the fresh tomato salsa. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
