Ingredients:

  • 1 whole black sea bass (about 2-3 pounds, cleaned and scaled)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil for dressing
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the black sea bass under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Make 3-4 diagonal slashes on both sides of the fish.
  2. Rub the fish with olive oil, salt, and pepper inside and out. Insert thyme sprigs into the cavity of the fish.
  3. Allow the fish to marinate for 10 minutes while preparing the dressing.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Place the fish on a baking sheet (lined with parchment if desired). Bake for 20-25 minutes until the skin is crispy and the flesh is opaque.
  7. Carefully transfer to a serving platter and drizzle generously with lemon herb dressing.