Crispy Polenta-Crusted Branzino with Charred Radicchio & Salsa Verde
Prep 20 min · Cook 25 min · Serves 4 · medium

Pan-seared Mediterranean sea bass with a crunchy polenta crust, served alongside bitter-sweet charred radicchio and vibrant Italian salsa verde. A French Provençal-inspired dinner with bold, clean flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 fillets (6 oz each) branzino fillets, skin-on, patted dry
- 0.75 cup polenta, instant cornmeal
- 6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp sea salt, plus more to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 head radicchio, cut into 8 wedges
- 1 cup fresh parsley, loosely packed
- 0.5 cup fresh basil, loosely packed
- 0.25 cup fresh mint, loosely packed
- 3 cloves garlic cloves, minced
- 2 whole lemon, zest and juice
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
Instructions
- 1
Prepare farro: Bring vegetable broth to boil, add farro with pinch of salt. Simmer 20-22 minutes until tender. Drain if excess liquid remains. Set aside.
- 2
While farro cooks, prepare salsa verde: Chop herbs finely, combine with minced garlic, lemon zest, red wine vinegar, capers, anchovies (if using), and 3 tbsp olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.


