Pan-Roasted Whole Branzino

Ingredients

• 2 whole branzino, gutted and scaled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Warm the olive oil in a large skillet that can go in the oven, setting it over medium-high heat.
3. Sprinkle the branzino with salt and pepper, then set it in the hot skillet with the skin facing down. Sear for 3 minutes, until the skin is nicely browned, then turn the fish over and cook for 2 minutes more.
4. Scatter in the garlic, oregano, and lemon slices, then add the butter and the white wine or chicken broth. Let everything come to a simmer and cook for 1 minute longer.
5. Move the skillet into the heated oven and roast for 10 minutes, until the fish is fully cooked and flakes easily.
6. Finish with chopped fresh parsley, if using, just before serving.