Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pan-Fried Sea Bass with Chili & Greens Recipe

Pan-Fried Sea Bass with Chili & Greens Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 14-20 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Delicate pan-fried sea bass with chili & greens dances between zesty Mediterranean flavors and elegant seafood finesse. Crisp herbs and spicy undertones create a delightful plate you’ll savor with Mediterranean-inspired enthusiasm.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 sea bass fillets

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 1 red chili, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
  • 2 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, kale, or chard)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sea bass by patting the fillets dry with paper towels, ensuring the skin is moisture-free for optimal crispiness.
  2. Season the fillets generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the surface shimmers and appears slightly rippled.
  4. Carefully place the sea bass fillets skin-side down, allowing them to sear undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the skin turns golden and crisp.
  5. Gently flip the fillets using a fish spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily.
  6. Transfer the cooked sea bass to a warm plate and set aside.
  7. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add finely chopped chili, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
  8. Sauté the aromatic ingredients for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release their fragrant oils.
  9. Add mixed greens to the skillet, tossing them quickly to coat with the spicy infused oil and cook until just wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes.
  10. Arrange the chili and greens mixture on serving plates and delicately place the crispy-skinned sea bass on top.
  11. Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal texture and temperature of the dish.

Notes

  • Crispy Skin Technique: Pat the sea bass fillets completely dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure a perfectly crisp, golden skin that doesn’t stick to the pan.
  • Heat Management: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution and to prevent burning, which helps achieve restaurant-quality pan-frying.
  • Dietary Adaptations: Swap sea bass with firm white fish like cod or halibut for similar texture if sea bass is unavailable or to reduce cost.
  • Spice Control: Adjust chili quantity based on heat preference, removing seeds for milder flavor or adding extra for more kick.
  • Prep Time: 3-5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 11-15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 200 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg