Rockfish is Southern California's culinary treasure, offering freshness, sustainability, and versatility. Native to the Pacific Coast, rockfish thrives in SoCal waters, with popular spots like Santa Barbara, Ventura, and San Diego. With varieties like Vermilion, Yellowtail, and Canary, rockfish excels in dishes from grilled to baked, showcasing its rich flavor and tender texture.

A Mediterranean-Inspired Rockfish Masterpiece

Full Recipe in Details

Indulge in the flavors of Southern California with this Whole Baked Rockfish recipe, featuring fresh Vermilion Rockfish, zesty lemon, and aromatic thyme. Perfectly seasoned and baked to perfection, this dish showcases the rich flavor and tender texture of rockfish, making it a must-try for seafood lovers.

STARTING GUIDE
  • Cuisine: Fish
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cooking Time: 15-20 mins
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Calories: N/A
  • Fat: N/A
  • Carbs: N/A
  • Protein: N/A
INGREDIENTS
  • 1 Whole (approximately 3 pounds) Gutted and Cleaned Rockfish (Vermilion)
  • 3 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 2 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
  • (Optional) 1 Tablespoons Fresh Thyme (finely chopped)
  • ¼ Teaspoon Sweet Paprika
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Lemon slices for garnish
GUIDE / INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

  • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse rockfish, pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Season

  • Pat dry whole fish.
  • Using the tip of a razor-sharp knife, carefully create three diagonal slits, spaced approximately two inches apart, across the top of the fish. Ensure the cuts penetrate only the skin, avoiding the flesh beneath.
  • Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil inside cavity and outside of fish on both sides. Sprinkle thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Stuff and Truss

  • Stuff lemon slices inside cavity. Truss fish with kitchen twine.

Step 4: Drizzle and Bake

  • Drizzle remaining 2 tbsp olive oil outside. Bake 12-15 minutes per pound or until cooked through. Minimum internal temperature: 145°F (63°C). Recommended internal temperature: 150°F (66°C) to 155°F (68°C).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  • Serve immediately.
NOTES

Don't overcrowd baking sheet. Overcooking: rockfish becomes dry. Under seasoning lacks flavor.

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