Light, fresh, and packed with sunshine — this Mediterranean Sea Bass with Fennel & Orange Salad brings the flavors of the coast straight to your table. The combination of sweet citrus, briny olives, and delicate fish creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

Whether you’re hosting a summer dinner or craving something healthy yet indulgent, this dish delivers both elegance and ease. In just a few steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal that looks as beautiful as it tastes.

Let’s dive into how to make this crisp, colorful, and satisfying recipe that embodies Mediterranean simplicity at its best.

Ingredients

• 300g sea bass fillets (2 fillets)
• 1 medium fennel bulb
• 1 large orange
• 50g Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/2 small red onion
• 1 small handful fresh dill
• 45ml extra virgin olive oil
• 15ml lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the salad: Thinly slice the fennel bulb and the red onion. Peel and segment the orange over a bowl to catch the juices. Roughly chop the fresh dill.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the sliced fennel, orange segments, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
3. Make the dressing: Whisk together 30ml of olive oil, the lemon juice, any reserved orange juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour over the salad, add the chopped dill, and toss gently.
4. Cook the fish: Pat the sea bass fillets dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the remaining 15ml of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Place the fillets skin-side down and cook for 3–4 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
6. Divide the fennel and orange salad between two plates and top each with a seared sea bass fillet. Serve immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

• Swap the fish: Try snapper, cod, or branzino for a similar texture and mild flavor.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts over the salad for extra texture.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the fennel salad up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate; sear the fish just before serving.

Nutrition

Approximate total per serving:

• Calories: 1050
• Fat: 62g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 16g
• Protein: 72g

This dish captures the spirit of the Mediterranean — fresh ingredients, simple preparation, and vibrant flavor. Try it for your next dinner and share your creation with friends or family. Bon appétit!