Mediterranean Sea Bass Recipe

1. Set the racks in the middle and upper thirds of the oven and preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Sauce:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the onion, garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden.

2. Add the fennel and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and translucent.

3. Reduce the heat to medium and add the tomatoes with their juices. Using the back of a wooden spoon, smash the tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes.

4. Add the basil, wine, olives, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ⅛ teaspoon of black pepper.

5. Reduce to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce is slightly thickened. Do this while preparing the fish.

Sea Bass:

1. Pat the fillets dry, lightly spray with cooking spray, and season with salt and pepper.

2. In a heavy ovenproof skillet over high heat, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the fillets, rounded side down, and cook for 2 minutes.

3. Carefully flip the fillets with a metal spatula and place the skillet in the oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the fish is no longer translucent.

4. Switch the oven to broil and place the skillet on the upper rack. Broil for 2 to 4 minutes, until the tops of the fillets are golden brown.

5. Arrange the fillets on individual plates, spoon on the sauce, and serve. Enjoy!