Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels special yet is simple enough for any weeknight, you’ve landed in the right place! Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach has become a cherished dish in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you. This meal is not only bursting with flavor but also a perfect balance of healthy greens and succulent fish. It’s great for family dinners or even when you’re hosting friends, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.

What makes this dish truly shine is the creamy texture of the spinach paired with the zesty lemon-garlic sauce that brings everything together. You’ll find yourself making it time and time again—trust me!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delightful dinner on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy this flavorful dish; it’s a sure hit for both kids and adults!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the creamed spinach earlier in the day, making mealtime even easier.
• Rich flavors: The combination of garlic, lemon, and Parmesan creates an indulgent taste experience.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh spinach and lean sea bass, this dish is as good for you as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! These are simple, wholesome items that will come together beautifully to create a memorable meal.

• 1 lb Chilean sea bass fillet (skin-on, if possible)
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Creole seasoning
• 2 tbsp butter
• 12 oz fresh spinach leaves
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tbsp butter (for creamed spinach)
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 3 tbsp butter (for sauce)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 tsp minced garlic (for sauce)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (for sauce)
• 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (for sauce)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: If sea bass isn’t available, feel free to use halibut or salmon for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or asparagus alongside the spinach for added color and nutrition.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a tasty dairy-free option.
• Citrus twist: Experiment with lime or orange zest and juice instead of lemon for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Sea Bass

Start by patting your Chilean sea bass dry with paper towels. This step is essential because it helps achieve that delicious golden crust when searing. Next, season both sides of the fillets generously with sea salt, black pepper, and Creole seasoning to enhance their natural flavors.

Step 2: Sear the Sea Bass

Preheat your cast iron skillet or oven-safe frying pan over medium-high heat. Add in two tablespoons of butter and let it melt until bubbling—this means it’s hot enough to give your fish that beautiful sear! Carefully place the seasoned sea bass fillets into the skillet skin-side down if applicable. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about three to four minutes until you see that lovely golden crust form.

Step 3: Finish Cooking in the Oven

Once flipped, cook the fish for another two minutes before transferring your skillet to an oven preheated at 400°F (200°C). Bake for eight to ten minutes until your sea bass is flaky and fully cooked through—this ensures every bite is succulent.

Step 4: Make the Creamed Spinach

While your fish bakes away nicely, let’s prepare our creamed spinach! In another pan over medium heat, melt one tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until fragrant. Then stir in those fresh spinach leaves and cook until they wilt down—this should take around two to three minutes. Pour in heavy whipping cream and season with additional salt and pepper before allowing it all to simmer gently until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Parmesan Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt three tablespoons of butter. Whisk in two tablespoons of flour, cooking this roux for one to two minutes. Next, add minced garlic and stir for another minute before gradually whisking in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and sea salt. Finally, zest and juice your lemon into this luscious mixture while letting it simmer until thickened.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Now comes my favorite part—assembling this beautiful dish! Start by placing a generous portion of creamed spinach on each plate as your base layer. Top each serving with a perfectly seared piece of sea bass. Don’t forget to drizzle that rich lemon Parmesan sauce generously over everything—it ties all those lovely flavors together!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful meal; it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring all by yourself!

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

Creating a delightful meal can be even easier with these handy tips!

• Pat the Fish Dry: Ensuring the sea bass is dry before seasoning helps achieve a beautiful sear, giving it that irresistible golden crust.
• Don’t Rush the Sear: Allowing the fish to cook undisturbed in the skillet for a few minutes helps develop flavor and texture. Patience pays off here!
• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and adds vibrant color to your dish. If you’re short on time, pre-washed spinach can also work.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream in both the creamed spinach and lemon Parmesan sauce to suit your taste. A bit more cream makes everything richer!
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while it’s still warm and flavorful.

How to Serve Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach

Presentation is key when serving this gorgeous dish! It not only pleases the palate but also delights the eyes.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives over your dish just before serving for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A couple of lemon wedges on the side allow guests to add a splash of fresh citrus right before taking a bite, enhancing that zesty flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and rich, garlic mashed potatoes provide a hearty complement to the delicate flavors of sea bass.
• Roasted Asparagus: The slight crunch and freshness from roasted asparagus create a lovely contrast to the creamy spinach while adding bright green color to your plate.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a squeeze of lemon makes for a refreshing side that pairs wonderfully with fish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli offers a lovely green element that balances out the richness of both sauces in this dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach will not only taste fantastic but also look like it belongs in a gourmet restaurant! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sea bass and creamed spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 2-3 days.
• Keep the lemon Parmesan sauce separate to maintain its freshness.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze, allow the sea bass to cool completely first.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• The creamed spinach can also be frozen, but consume within 1 month for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the sea bass in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• The creamed spinach can be reheated on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

How can I make Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend when making the lemon Parmesan sauce. Ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

Can I use frozen fish for Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking to ensure even cooking and great texture.

What side dishes pair well with Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach?

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a light salad. You could also serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach! This dish not only brings together vibrant flavors but also offers a delightful dining experience. It’s perfect for special occasions or simply elevating your weeknight meals. Enjoy every bite, and feel free to share your cooking adventures with me!