Seared Black Bass With Scallion-Chile Relish

Crispy-skinned black bass fillets served with a fresh, zesty relish made from scallions, serrano chile, and cilantro. This elegant seafood dish combines perfectly seared fish with a bright, spicy topping.

4 servings
14 min

Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 4 fillets skin-on black bass fillets
  • 1 to taste Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
  • 1 bunch scallions
  • 1 whole serrano chile
  • 2 cups cilantro leaves with tender stems
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high until very hot but not smoking. Season bass with salt and pepper and cook, skin side down, gently pressing occasionally with a spatula to ensure contact with skillet, until skin is browned and crisp and flesh is nearly opaque, 6-8 minutes. Turn and cook until flesh is opaque throughout, about 1 minute longer.

    9 min

  2. 2.

    Meanwhile, toss scallions, chile, cilantro, lime juice, sesame seeds, and remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a medium bowl; season with salt. Serve bass with scallion-chile relish.

    5 min