Name: Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chilean sea bass fillet (skin-on preferred); 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning; 2 tablespoons butter; 12 oz fresh spinach leaves; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; ¼ cup heavy whipping cream; 1 tablespoon butter; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 teaspoons minced garlic; ¼ cup chicken broth; ½ cup heavy whipping cream; 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; Zest and juice of 1 lemon

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If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that bursts with flavor and elegance, look no further than this luscious lemon-garlic sea bass with creamed spinach. In under 40 minutes, you can create a stunning dish that is sure to impress at any dinner gathering. The crispy sea bass, paired with silky creamed spinach, offers an incredible symphony of textures and tastes that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. With a bright lemon-Parmesan drizzle to top it all off, this dish not only delivers on tastes but also on aesthetics, making it a perfect centerpiece for your dining table.

What makes this lemon-garlic sea bass particularly appealing is its simplicity. With just a few high-quality ingredients, you can achieve a gourmet experience right at home. The combination of perfectly seared fish along with rich, creamy spinach and the zesty sauce means that you’re not just serving a meal; you’re creating a culinary experience. Plus, it’s an incredibly adaptable dish that can easily incorporate different flavor profiles based on your personal taste. Let’s dive deeper into why you will fall in love with this delightful recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass

👩‍🍳 Quick & Easy: Prepare an elegant meal in under 40 minutes.
🍋 Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan brings freshness and zest to your table.
🐟 Nutritious: Sea bass is a healthy source of protein packed with omega-3 fatty acids, critical for heart health.
🌱 Vegetable Rich: Creamed spinach adds a healthy dose of greens, making this dish both nutritious and indulgent.
💖 Beautiful Presentation: The dish looks exquisite, perfect for impressing dinner guests or special occasions.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on this culinary journey with lemon-garlic sea bass, a little preparation goes a long way. First, gather all your ingredients and measure them out. This will streamline the cooking process and allow you to focus on execution rather than hunting for items as you cook.

You’ll need a couple of pans: a heavy skillet for searing the fish and another pan for preparing the creamy spinach. Ensure your cookware is in good shape—non-stick skillets are excellent for preparing delicate sea bass to avoid sticking while cooking. An oven-safe skillet will also serve you well, allowing you to sear and bake in the same dish, saving both time and clean-up effort. Additionally, have all your measuring spoons and a whisk handy for mixing your sauces. A zester is also extremely handy for incorporating that fresh lemon flavor into your dish.

Ingredients

1 lb Chilean sea bass fillet (skin-on preferred)
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
2 tablespoons butter
12 oz fresh spinach leaves
2 teaspoons minced garlic
¼ cup heavy whipping cream
1 tablespoon butter
¼ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons minced garlic
¼ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon sea salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sea Bass

Begin by making sure the sea bass fillet is completely dry by patting it down with a paper towel. This step is crucial because a dry surface allows you to achieve a wonderfully crispy skin when it hits the hot skillet. Once dried, season the fish liberally on both sides with sea salt, black pepper, and the Creole seasoning. This blend not only enhances the flavor of the fish but also adds a subtle warmth that beautifully complements the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sear the Fish

Heat a couple of tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, gently place the sea bass fillet into the skillet, skin-side down. This is where the magic begins! Let it sear for about 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crisp. Flip the fish carefully using a fish spatula and cook the other side for another 2 minutes. The goal here is to ensure the fish is cooked perfectly, flaky and moist on the inside, while the skin remains crunchy.

Step 3: Finish in Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the searing process is complete, transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the sea bass for about 8-10 minutes until it is fully cooked. To check doneness, the flesh should be opaque and easily flake with a fork.

Step 4: Make Creamed Spinach

While the fish is baking, it’s time to whip up the creamed spinach. In another pan over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they are just wilted, taking around 2-3 minutes. Once wilted, pour in the heavy whipping cream, and season lightly with sea salt and black pepper. Allow this to simmer for about 2 minutes until it thickens up slightly; it will complement the sea bass beautifully.

Step 5: Make Lemon Parmesan Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat, then add the flour. Whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will give your sauce a lovely thick texture. Stir in the minced garlic, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, creating a silky base for your sauce. Once combined, bring the mixture to a simmer before adding the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and the zest and juice of the lemon. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, and let it simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until it thickens. The end result will be a luscious, rich sauce that pairs perfectly with the sea bass and spinach.

Variations

Protein: Swap sea bass for salmon or trout for a different flavor profile that still complements the creamy spinach.
Vegetables: Add mushrooms or asparagus to the creamed spinach for added texture and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with the seasoning by adding cayenne pepper for heat or dill for a fresh herbal note.

Cooking Notes

Ensure the seafood is sourced from a reputable supplier to guarantee freshness.
Don’t skip the step of patting the fish dry; this is key for achieving a crisp skin.
Feel free to prep the sauces ahead of time to save on cooking during busy days.
Leftover lemon-Parmesan sauce can be stored in the fridge for a few days and used with other dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp sparkling water with lemon slices.
Serve alongside garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

Tips

Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the sea bass; it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
For a richer flavor, finish the creamed spinach with a touch of nutmeg.
To make the dish more vibrant, garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges before serving.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Protein: 40g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen sea bass for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen sea bass. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking to ensure good results.

How do I know when the sea bass is cooked?

The fish is cooked perfectly when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Using a meat thermometer, it should read 145°F (63°C).

Can I make the creamed spinach ahead of time?

Yes, the creamed spinach can be made ahead of time and reheated just before serving. It may need a bit more cream to bring it back to the right consistency.

What side dishes go well with lemon-garlic sea bass?

Light salads, rice pilaf, or roasted potatoes go wonderfully with lemon-garlic sea bass, complementing the rich flavors of this dish.

Conclusion

This luscious lemon-garlic sea bass with creamed spinach is not just a meal—it’s an experience that brings together a vibrant palette of flavors and textures. Whether it’s for an intimate dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to wow your guests and leave them asking for the secret to your culinary prowess. Don’t hesitate to explore different variations of this dish to find the perfect combination that tickles your taste buds. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback, and inspire others by showcasing your delicious creation. Let’s bring gourmet flavors into everyday life!

Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach