Lighthouse Sea Bass with Lemon-Caper Sauce

By AislePrompt Test Kitchen · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Flaky sea bass baked to golden perfection with a bright lemon-caper sauce that shines like a lighthouse beam through the fog. This mediterranean-inspired seafood ready in about 25 minutes blends (6 oz each) Sea bass fillets, Olive oil, Lemon into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 260 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

★ 4.1 (9 ratings) Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves 2 Mediterranean cuisine 260 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat sea bass fillets dry and rub with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season with 1/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper on both sides.
  2. Step 2: Place fillets in a baking dish and top with 1/2 thinly sliced lemon (skin removed), 1 tbsp capers, and 1 tbsp fresh dill.
  3. Step 3: Bake for 12-14 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the edges are golden brown.
  4. Step 4: Remove from oven and spoon off excess liquid, then transfer to a plate. Add 2 tbsp dry white wine to the baking dish and simmer over medium heat for 2 minutes until reduced by half.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 1 tbsp butter until melted and glossy, then pour the sauce over the fish just before serving, ensuring the sauce coats the fish evenly and gleams like sunlight on water.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Lighthouse Sea Bass with Lemon-Caper Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 25 minutes (10 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Lighthouse Sea Bass with Lemon-Caper Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Lighthouse Sea Bass with Lemon-Caper Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Lighthouse Sea Bass with Lemon-Caper Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Lighthouse Sea Bass with Lemon-Caper Sauce?

Mediterranean seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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