Name: Oven-Roasted Whole Fish with Herb and Spice Marinade Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: ½ thumb-sized piece of ginger; 3 garlic cloves; 1 medium bell pepper, cut into 2” cubes; 2 sprigs parsley, chopped; 2 sprigs green onion, cut into 2” slices; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup olive oil; 2 tsp Knorr seasoning (or any seasoning powder); 1 tbsp paprika; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1 whole fish (gutted and cleaned); Onion wedges; Lemon slices

Introduction

Roasted whole fish is a simple yet impressive dish that’s packed with fresh flavors and aromatic spices. This recipe combines a vibrant homemade marinade with perfectly grilled fish, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, it’s sure to satisfy seafood lovers.

Two whole grilled fish covered in herbs and spices, each with a slice of lemon tucked underneath, lie side by side on a white plate with a marbled texture. Around the fish, there is a colorful mix of cooked vegetables including green zucchini slices, red bell peppers, purple onion chunks, and yellow pieces, creating a vibrant border. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled over the fish and vegetables, with sprigs of rosemary placed on the sides for garnish. The fish skin has a crispy, slightly charred texture with a golden-brown color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 whole fish (gutted & cleaned)

½ thumb-sized piece of ginger

3 garlic cloves

1 medium bell pepper (cut into 2” cubes)

2 sprigs parsley (chopped)

1 small onion (thinly sliced)

2 sprigs green onion (cut into 2” slices)

1 cup olive oil

2 tsp Knorr seasoning (or any seasoning powder)

1 tbsp paprika

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp oregano

1 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: In a food processor, combine ginger, bell pepper, parsley, green onion, and onion. Process until you get a consistent puree, then transfer it to a medium bowl.

Step 2: Add the olive oil to the puree and mix well to combine.

Step 3: Stir in Knorr seasoning, paprika, black pepper, oregano, and salt. Mix thoroughly with a spoon until evenly blended.

Step 4: Pat the fish dry with paper towels. Make diagonal slits about 1 inch apart on both sides of the fish to help the marinade penetrate.

Step 5: Rub the marinade all over the fish, making sure to get it inside the slits.

Step 6: Place the fish on a grill tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to marinate.

Step 7: Preheat the oven to 400°F about 10 minutes before the marinating time ends.

Step 8: Remove the fish from the refrigerator, apply additional marinade, and lightly spray with oil for a crispy skin.

Step 9: Pour the remaining marinade into a skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes until thickened and cooked through.

Step 10: Place the fish in the preheated oven and broil or grill for 10–15 minutes. Flip the fish and cook the other side for another 10–15 minutes, basting with the cooked marinade every 4–5 minutes.

Step 11: When cooked through and nicely browned, remove the fish from the oven. Serve hot with onion wedges, lemon slices, or your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or fresh herbs like dill to the marinade.

If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the vegetables and herbs by hand before mixing.

Adjust the seasoning to your preference, especially if using a different fish variety.

Try adding chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, this marinade works well with various whole fish like snapper, trout, or sea bass. Adjust cooking times based on the size and thickness of the fish.

How do I know when the fish is fully cooked?

The fish is done when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary, so check regularly to avoid overcooking.