Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both elegant and comforting, you’ve landed in the right spot! This Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach has a delightful balance of fresh flavors and rich textures. It’s my go-to recipe when I want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The zing from the lemon and the savory garlic perfectly complement the tender sea bass, while the creamed spinach adds a warm, creamy touch that just feels like a hug on a plate.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this recipe fits right in. It’s simple enough to whip up any night but fancy enough to serve at your next dinner party. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This meal comes together in just over an hour, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when flavor matters most.
• Family-friendly: With its deliciously mild taste, even picky eaters will enjoy this sea bass dish.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the creamed spinach earlier in the day, saving you time during dinner.
• Bright flavors: The combination of lemon and garlic elevates the sea bass, keeping every bite exciting.
• Nutritious and satisfying: Packed with protein and greens, this dish is wholesome without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just some simple, wholesome ingredients found right in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sea Bass

• 4 sea bass fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Creamed Spinach

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 oz fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pinch nutmeg (optional)

Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the fish: If sea bass isn’t available, try swapping it with another mild white fish like cod or tilapia.
• Add some heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes can give your creamed spinach a nice kick!
• Go dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that still tastes great.
• Incorporate other greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, kale or Swiss chard can be delicious alternatives.

How to Make Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your fish cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color on top!

Step 2: Season the Fish

Pat the sea bass fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This not only enhances flavor but also helps create a nice crust when cooking.

Step 3: Mix Your Marinade

In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and melted butter. Mixing these ingredients creates a flavorful marinade that will soak into your fish while it cooks.

Step 4: Sear the Fish

Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned sea bass fillets and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Spoon that delicious lemon-garlic mixture over them before transferring to the oven to bake for about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamed Spinach

While your fish bakes away, melt butter in another skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; cooking them until soft releases their sweet aroma. Toss in fresh spinach until wilted—this step adds vibrant color and nutrients!

Step 6: Finish Your Spinach Dish

Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create that luscious creaminess we all love. Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired; let it simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 7: Serve Up!

To serve, spoon generous portions of creamed spinach onto plates then top each with a beautiful piece of lemon-garlic sea bass. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that final touch.

Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach

Creating a delightful dish can often be achieved with just a few simple tweaks! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach is a hit every time.

• Choose Fresh Fish: Always opt for the freshest sea bass you can find. Fresh fish has a superior flavor and texture compared to frozen or previously thawed options.

• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time! Overcooking the sea bass can result in a dry texture. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork, so check it early if you’re unsure.

• Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of this dish relies heavily on its ingredients. Use high-quality butter and fresh produce, especially for the spinach and herbs, as they make all the difference in taste.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your own twist by experimenting with additional spices like crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or lemon thyme for added zest.

• Make Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prepare the creamed spinach ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before serving, allowing you to focus on perfectly cooking the sea bass!

How to Serve Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach

Presentation is key when it comes to making any meal feel special! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a touch of color but also enhances the dish’s fresh flavors.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside provides an extra squeeze of citrus for those who love that zesty kick.
• Microgreens: For an elegant touch, consider adding some microgreens on top – they’re not only beautiful but also add a burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements the sea bass beautifully.
• Roasted Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender. The slight crunch adds great texture next to the creamy spinach.
• Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this rich dish.
• Grilled Zucchini: Simply slice zucchini, brush with olive oil, season lightly, and grill until charred. This adds a nice smoky flavor that contrasts well with the fish.

By following these tips and pairing suggestions, your Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach will not only taste amazing but look stunning too! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time to enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Place the sea bass and creamed spinach in airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the sea bass and creamed spinach separately.
• Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• The creamed spinach can be stored in an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat the sea bass in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
• For creamed spinach, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dish!

Can I use other types of fish instead of sea bass for this recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights lemon-garlic sea bass with creamed spinach, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like cod or tilapia. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your fillets.

What can I serve with Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for extra freshness.

How do I know when my sea bass is cooked through?

The fish should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If it’s still translucent in the middle, give it a few more minutes.

Can I make Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach dairy-free?

Yes! To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute unsalted butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives like olive oil and coconut cream or almond milk. Adjust seasonings as needed!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach! It’s not just about the wonderful flavors but also about sharing a lovely meal with those you care about. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to try this recipe again—each time will be just as special!