Welcome to my little corner of the culinary world, where every recipe tells a story and every meal is an opportunity to gather loved ones around a table. Today, we’re diving into a dish that brings together bright, zesty flavors with comforting, creamy textures: Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach. This dish is a personal favorite, inspired by my love for both the sea and the rich, soulful cooking I learned at my grandmother’s side. Growing up in a bustling Mexican-American household in Asheville, the kitchen was our stage, and every meal was a performance worth savoring. Now, nestled in Charleston with my husband, Marco, and our golden retriever, Biscuit, I continue to explore and share the joy of cooking with you all.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach
This Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach is a symphony of flavors and textures that comes together effortlessly, yet feels like a restaurant-quality meal. The sea bass is tender and flaky, infused with the vibrant notes of lemon and garlic, reminiscent of the citrus-infused dishes I first fell in love with during our coastal vacations. Paired with a luscious creamed spinach, this dish has the kind of comforting richness that takes me back to the cozy family dinners of my childhood. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out in the kitchen, you’ll find this dish is both approachable and impressive, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach
- 4 fillets of sea bass (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 480 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
Zesty Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass Meets Luxurious Creamed Spinach Delight
Learn how to make delicious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 fillets of sea bass (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a great time to get the kitchen buzzing with excitement, just like when my siblings and I would crowd around the oven waiting for abuela’s creations.
- Season the sea bass fillets with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sea bass, skin-side down, and cook until the skin is crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Flip the fillets, then spoon the garlic-lemon mixture over them. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- While the sea bass is in the oven, melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and nutmeg. Cook for another 2 minutes before adding the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Once the sea bass is cooked, serve it over a bed of creamed spinach, ensuring each bite delivers a blend of tangy, garlicky sea bass with creamy, cheesy spinach.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a great time to get the kitchen buzzing with excitement, just like when my siblings and I would crowd around the oven waiting for abuela’s creations.
- Season the sea bass fillets with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon juice, and zest. Set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sea bass, skin-side down, and cook until the skin is crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Flip the fillets, then spoon the garlic-lemon mixture over them. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- While the sea bass is in the oven, melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and nutmeg. Cook for another 2 minutes before adding the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Once the sea bass is cooked, serve it over a bed of creamed spinach, ensuring each bite delivers a blend of tangy, garlicky sea bass with creamy, cheesy spinach.
Tips for Making the Best Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach
For the best results, make sure your sea bass fillets are as fresh as possible. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap the sea bass for another white fish like cod or halibut. When cooking the spinach, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat — a little nod to the lively flavors of my abuela’s kitchen. And remember, the key to a perfectly crispy skin is to leave the fish undisturbed while it sears in the pan.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the lemon and garlic notes without overpowering the delicate flavor of the fish. For a complete meal, consider serving this dish alongside some crusty bread or a light, green salad. These pairings remind me of the simple yet satisfying meals shared with family around a big dining table, where laughter and stories were as plentiful as the food.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the sea bass and creamed spinach separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sea bass in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Gently reheat the creamed spinach in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream if it appears too thick.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach?
The main ingredients for Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach?
The total time to make Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach ahead of time?
Yes, Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach?
Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just a necessity; it’s an opportunity to explore flavors, create memories, and connect with loved ones. This Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach is a testament to that belief. With each bite, I hope you’re reminded of the joy that cooking can bring, much like the joyful chaos of my childhood kitchen. Here’s to many more meals filled with laughter, love, and delicious flavors. Happy cooking!
