Branzino al Sale

Branzino al Sale is a classic Italian dish where the fish is baked in a crust of salt, preserving its natural flavors and moisture. This high-protein lunch option is not only delicious but also showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients.

Ingredients

• Branzino - 1 whole (about 600g, cleaned)
• Sea salt - 1 kg
• Fresh rosemary - 2 sprigs
• Fresh thyme - 2 sprigs
• Lemon - 1, sliced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F).
2. Rinse the branzino under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Stuff the cavity of the branzino with rosemary, thyme, and lemon slices.
4. In a baking dish, create a bed of sea salt that is about 1cm thick.
5. Place the branzino on top of the salt bed.
6. Cover the fish completely with the remaining sea salt, ensuring it is sealed tightly.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the salt crust and sprinkle black pepper on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the fish is cooked through.
9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
10. Carefully crack open the salt crust and remove the fish. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and additional lemon slices.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 38 g
• Carbs: 1 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 2600 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Water: 0.2 L

Health Benefits

• High in protein, supporting muscle health and recovery.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health.

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