Experience the simplicity of a delicious meal that's both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Our Baked Branzino with Orzo and Broccoli is a delightful combination of tender branzino, fluffy orzo, and vibrant broccoli. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a satisfying and wholesome dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table in no time.
What is great about Baked Branzino?
The dish combines the mild, buttery flavor of branzino with the nutty orzo and the fresh, crisp taste of broccoli. This combination creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that's both satisfying and delicious.
Branzino is a lean fish that's rich in protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice. Broccoli adds vitamins and fiber, while orzo provides a hearty base. Together, they create a well-balanced meal.
This dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. You can have a restaurant-quality meal at home without a lot of fuss.
Tips
Cook the orzo in chicken broth and add slightly steamed broccoli so that it does not get soggy.
Start with fresh branzino, crisp broccoli, and high-quality orzo. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
Don't skimp on seasoning. Use a good amount of salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like to season the branzino, orzo, and broccoli. This will ensure every bite is flavorful.
Baked Branzino with Orzo and Broccoli
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients:
One whole branzino fish (about 1 to 1 ½ pound) – cleaned, with head and tail attached.
Olive Oil
Chicken Broth
Parmesan cheese
Broccoli
Lemon – You’ll need about ½ a lemon, sliced into thin rounds, to stuff the fish cavity.
Red onion, sliced – Use about ½ a red onion to stuff the fish.
1/2 cup of chopped fresh dill
1 cup of cherry tomatoes
Directions:
1. Heat the oven to 425 degrees F.
2. Make two slits on both sides of the fish. Rub the fish with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides, inserting the seasoning through the slits and in the fish cavity.
3. Stuff the fish cavity with the sliced onion, lemon, and fresh herbs.
4. Cook the orzo in chicken broth and add slightly steamed broccoli so that it does not get soggy.
5. Roast in the center rack of your heated oven for 5 minutes on one side, then turn over and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes or until the fish is cooked and flakes easily.
6. When finished, transfer the fish to a serving platter and add parmesan cheese to Orzo. Toss the cherry tomatoes with a little salt and spoon them over the fish. Finish with fresh dill. Enjoy!
Suggested Pairing
Serve with a crisp white wine.
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