Pork Free Pan-Fried Branzino with Capers and Lemon
Branzino is one of those fish that delivers serious restaurant-quality results with surprisingly little effort, and this pan-fried version is proof. The skin crisps up beautifully in a hot cast iron or stainless steel skillet, while the flesh stays tender and flaky all the way through. What really elevates the dish is the quick pan sauce — briny capers, golden garlic, a hit of red pepper flakes, and bright lemon juice all come together in under two minutes using the same skillet. A handful of fresh flat-leaf parsley stirred in at the end keeps everything feeling vibrant and fresh. The entire recipe relies on simple, clean ingredients — olive oil, citrus, herbs, and fish — so there's nothing hidden to worry about, just straightforward, honest cooking. Serve it immediately with extra lemon wedges and something to soak up that sauce, because you won't want to leave a drop behind.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 4 branzino fillets (about 6 oz each), skin-on
- ½ tsp fine sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided
For the pan sauce
- 3 tbsp capers, drained and rinsed
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
For serving
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Pat the branzino fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with the salt and black pepper.
- 2
Heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a 12-inch stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and a drop of water flicked in sizzles immediately.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!