Smoked Whole Branzino with Herb Marinade

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Smoked Whole Branzino with Herb Marinade.

1. Step 1

   To create a vibrant marinade for your branzino, start by adding fresh green onions, parsley, garlic, and zesty lemon peel into your food processor.

2. Step 2

   Pulse these ingredients together until they form a beautifully blended mixture.

3. Step 3

   With the processor still running, gradually drizzle in some olive oil, blending until the marinade reaches a smooth consistency.

4. Step 4

   For a delightful kick, stir in a finely chopped Thai chile pepper.

5. Step 5

   Next, take your branzino and place it in a glass dish, generously coating the fish with your aromatic marinade.

6. Step 6

   Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 4 to 8 hours, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld together.

7. Step 7

   When you're ready to cook, preheat your smoker to a cozy 400°F (200°C).

8. Step 8

   After the fish has marinated, gently remove it from the dish, shaking off any excess marinade.

9. Step 9

   Season the branzino with a sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper, and don’t forget to discard the leftover marinade.

10. Step 10

    To prepare your smoker, take an oiled paper towel and lightly grease the grates to prevent sticking.

11. Step 11

    Place the fish in the smoker with their heads facing the firebox, and for precision, insert a digital probe into the thickest part of the fish.

12. Step 12

    Now, let the magic happen as you smoke the branzino until it reaches a perfect internal temperature of 130°F (54°C), which should take about 30 minutes.

13. Step 13

    Enjoy the tantalizing aroma and the anticipation of a delicious meal ahead!.