Cuban Style Sea Bass with Citrus Marinade

Name: Cuban Style Sea Bass with Citrus Marinade
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes); 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 4 fillets sea bass (about 150g each, skin-on)

55 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Experience a burst of Cuban flavours with this citrus-marinated sea bass recipe, perfect for a zesty and refreshing meal.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Cuban cuisine is known for its vibrant and bold flavours, and this Cuban Style Sea Bass is no exception. By marinating the fish in a citrus blend, you bring out the natural sweetness and delicate texture of the sea bass. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a touch of tropical zest in their meals. The combination of lime, orange, and cilantro creates a refreshing marinade that enhances the fish's flavour without overpowering it. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a new way to enjoy seafood, this Cuban-inspired dish will bring a taste of the tropics to your table.

Instructions

Prepare the marinade

In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, pepper, and chopped cilantro until well combined.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning according to taste before adding the fish.

Marinate the sea bass

Place the sea bass fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, turning occasionally.

Pro tip: Do not marinate for more than 2 hours to avoid the fish becoming too acidic.

Preheat the pan

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan.

Pro tip: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the fish to get a nice sear.

Cook the sea bass

Remove the sea bass from the marinade and place it skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Pro tip: Avoid moving the fish too much to allow a crispy skin to form.

Rest the cooked fish

Transfer the cooked sea bass to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the fish.

Serve

Garnish with additional chopped cilantro and serve with your choice of sides.

Pro tip: A wedge of lime on the side adds extra freshness.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure your sea bass is fresh for the best flavour.
Use a non-stick pan to prevent the fish from sticking.
Let the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavour infusion.
Serve with Cuban rice or plantains for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sea bass Cuban style?

Sea bass Cuban style involves marinating the fish in a citrus blend with lime, orange, garlic, and cilantro, then pan-searing it.

How long should sea bass be marinated?

Sea bass should be marinated for at least 30 minutes, but not more than 2 hours to avoid an overly acidic taste.

What sides go well with Cuban sea bass?

Cuban sea bass pairs well with rice, black beans, or fried plantains.

Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

How should I store leftover sea bass?

Store leftover sea bass in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Cuban Style Sea Bass with a side of black beans and rice, or a simple salad to balance the citrusy notes. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the dish's fresh flavours. For make-ahead tips, prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Leftover sea bass can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.