Best Easy Pesce al Sale Recipe

Whole fish baked in a salt crust for perfectly steamed, moist flesh. This high protein mediterranean dish is a fresh, healthy family dinner that's dramatically presented at the table.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 215 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein #best fish dinners #low carb
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • whole sea bass (gutted and scaled) 2 lbs
  • egg whites 3 pieces
  • fresh lemon (sliced) 1 piece
  • fresh parsley (sprigs) 6 pieces
Seasonings/Sauce
  • kosher salt 4 cups
  • black pepper 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 3 g 5%
Protein 36 g 68%
Fat 6 g 27%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) with the rack in the center for even heat.

  2. 2

    In a large bowl, mix 4 cups kosher salt and 3 egg whites until the texture feels like damp sand.

  3. 3

    Place a thin layer of the salt mixture on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making a bed slightly larger than your fish.

  4. 4

    Stuff the fish cavity with lemon slices, fresh parsley sprigs, and a few cracks of black pepper.

  5. 5

    Lay the fish atop the salt bed, then cover completely with the remaining salt mixture, gently patting to seal with no gaps.

  6. 6

    Bake for 30-35 minutes until the salt crust turns light golden and feels very firm when tapped.

  7. 7

    Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes, then carefully crack the crust with a spoon and peel it away, brushing off excess salt before serving the moist fish fillets.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The essential ingredient in Pesce al Sale is the whole sea bass. Its fresh, delicate flesh is gently steamed and flavored thanks to the salt crust and the aromatic lemon and parsley stuffed inside.
Q. Why is egg white mixed with salt for the crust?
Egg whites moisten and bind the kosher salt, helping it form a firm, even crust that seals in the fish, ensuring even, gentle steaming and easy removal after baking.
Q. How do I know when the fish is perfectly cooked and not overdone?
Bake until the salt crust is firm and light golden—about 30-35 minutes for a 2-lb fish. If using a thermometer, the thickest part of the fillet should reach 135°F, ensuring moist and tender flesh without dryness.
Q. How many calories and grams of protein are in each serving?
Each 220g serving provides about 215 kcal with 36g protein. This makes the dish high in protein, with protein contributing roughly 68% of total calories for a balanced, healthy meal.
Q. Is this recipe considered low carb or Mediterranean?
Yes—this Pesce al Sale recipe is both low in carbohydrates (only 3g per serving) and aligns with Mediterranean cuisine, featuring lean fish, olive herbs, and simple, fresh flavors.
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