Baked Fish with Lemon and Garlic

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the fish dry with paper towels and score the skin 3 times on each side with a sharp knife.

Step 2

Rub the fish all over with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper, including inside the cavity.

Step 3

Slice 1 lemon into thin rounds and cut the other lemon into wedges for serving. Peel 6 garlic cloves and lightly crush them with the flat side of a knife.

Step 4

Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Stuff the cavity with half the lemon slices, 3 garlic cloves, and 2 bay leaves.

Step 5

Scatter the remaining lemon slices, garlic, and bay leaves around the fish. Drizzle everything with 3 tbsp olive oil.

Step 6

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork at the thickest part.

Step 7

Let the fish rest for 5 minutes, then serve with the lemon wedges and the roasted garlic and lemon from the pan.