Gilt Bream Recipe

This gilt bream recipe features whole fish baked gently with olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs. The result is tender, moist flesh with a clean, delicate flavor that feels both simple and refined.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 25

Total Time 40

Servings: 4

Course: Seafood dish

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 whole gilt bream cleaned and scaled
3 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic sliced
1 lemon sliced
2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Equipment

Baking dish
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Aluminum Foil (optional)

Method

Prepare the fish: Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Pat the gilt bream dry and make a few shallow cuts on each side.
Season: Place the fish in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, then season inside and out with salt and black pepper.
Stuff and arrange: Insert garlic slices, lemon slices, and herbs into the cavity of each fish. Add remaining lemon slices around the fish.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 22–25 minutes, until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Rest and serve: Let the fish rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon the pan juices over the top.

Notes

Do not overcook, gilt bream is best when just cooked through.
Fresh herbs enhance flavor without overpowering the fish.
Serve with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a simple salad.