If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in my home for its rich, buttery flavors and the way it effortlessly elevates any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish shines through with its simple yet elegant presentation.

What I love most about this recipe is how the zesty lemon and garlic beautifully complement the tender sea bass, while the creamy spinach adds comfort and heartiness to every bite. Trust me; once you try this, it’s bound to be one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Deliciously Comforting: The creamy sauce and savory fish create an irresistible flavor combination.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the delightful taste of lemon-garlic sea bass!
Make Ahead Option: You can prep the components in advance for an even quicker dinner.
Showstopper Presentation: Impress your guests with this elegant yet simple meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Let’s gather everything we need for our Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach!

For the Sea Bass

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

For the Creamed Spinach

12 oz fresh spinach leaves
2 tsp minced garlic
1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
1 tbsp butter
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Lemon Parmesan Sauce

3 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 tsp minced garlic
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp sea salt
Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Variations

One of the best things about cooking is how flexible recipes can be! Here are some fun variations to consider when making this dish:

Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of sea bass, try using another white fish like cod or halibut.
Make it vegetarian: Substitute the fish with grilled portobello mushrooms for a hearty plant-based option.
Add extra greens: Throw in some kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Experiment with spices: Try different seasonings like lemon pepper or garlic herb blends to give your dish a unique twist.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Sea Bass

Start by patting the sea bass dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps achieve that lovely 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 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt until it’s bubbling. Carefully place your seasoned sea bass fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Allow them to cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden crust.

Step 3: Finish the Sea Bass in the Oven

Once you’ve flipped the fish and cooked for another 2 minutes on that side, it’s time to finish cooking it in the oven! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), then transfer your skillet inside. Bake for about 8–10 minutes or until your fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 4: Make the Creamed Spinach

While your sea bass is baking away, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add in minced garlic and sauté for about a minute before adding fresh spinach leaves. Cook until they wilt down nicely—this usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Pour in heavy whipping cream and season with salt and pepper, letting everything simmer together until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Prepare the Lemon Parmesan Sauce

In another small saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about a minute to create a roux—this gives our sauce its rich texture! Next, add minced garlic and continue cooking briefly before gradually whisking in chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Stir in Parmesan cheese along with garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Finally, add zest and juice from one lemon to brighten up those flavors as you simmer until thickened.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

To serve up this delicious dish, place a generous portion of creamed spinach on each plate followed by topping it off with that perfectly seared sea bass fillet. Drizzle generously with your homemade lemon Parmesan sauce—it’s pure magic!

Now you’re ready to dig into this comforting plate of Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach! Enjoy every bite!

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

Cooking this delicious sea bass dish can be a breeze with a few simple tips to ensure perfection every time!

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your spinach and garlic are fresh. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall flavor and nutritional value of the dish, making each bite taste vibrant and satisfying.
Pat the Fish Dry: Before seasoning, patting the sea bass dry helps achieve a better sear, resulting in that beautiful golden crust we all love. This simple step prevents the fish from steaming in the pan.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your cooking times, especially when transferring from stove to oven. Cooking times can vary based on fillet thickness, so check for flakiness to ensure it’s perfectly cooked without drying out.
Whisk Your Sauce Well: When making the lemon Parmesan sauce, whisking continuously while adding liquids ensures a smooth, creamy texture without lumps. This will make your sauce more luxurious and enjoyable.
Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste your creamed spinach and lemon sauce while cooking! Adjusting seasoning as you go can elevate flavors to suit your palate perfectly.

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

Serving is just as important as cooking! Here are some delightful ways to present your beautiful dish that will impress anyone at your dining table.

Garnishes

Lemon Wedges: Adding a few lemon wedges not only brightens up the plate but also allows diners to add an extra splash of citrus if they desire.
Chopped Fresh Herbs: Topping with freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with the sea bass, soaking up any extra sauce for a comforting side that’s hard to resist.
Roasted Asparagus: The slight crunch and earthy flavor of roasted asparagus make it an excellent companion dish. Simply drizzle with olive oil and roast until tender for a healthy addition.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch alongside the rich flavors of the fish and spinach.
Couscous with Vegetables: Fluffy couscous mixed with sautéed seasonal vegetables provides a delightful texture contrast while being quick and easy to prepare.

Now that you have these tips for preparation and serving suggestions, you’re ready to whip up a stunning plate of Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach that will be cherished by friends and family alike! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components ahead of time and store them for a quick, delicious dinner during a busy week.

Storing Leftovers

Store the sea bass and creamed spinach separately in airtight containers.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Make sure to let everything cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked sea bass and creamed spinach in freezer-safe containers.
It’s best to consume within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
Label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

Thaw frozen sea bass and spinach overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful dish.

Can I use other types of fish instead of sea bass?

Absolutely! While the recipe features Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like cod or haddock. Just adjust cooking times as necessary, depending on the thickness of the fillets.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch in the lemon Parmesan sauce. This will ensure you achieve that creamy texture without any gluten.

Can I prepare Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach without heavy cream?

Definitely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream as an alternative to heavy cream. Both options will add a unique flavor while keeping the dish rich and creamy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Luscious Lemon-Garlic Sea Bass with Creamed Spinach! Each bite is a celebration of flavors that come together beautifully. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a comforting meal at home, I’m confident you’ll love making this dish as much as I do. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and don’t forget to share your experience!