Craving a light yet flavorful summer dinner? Look no further than this copycat of Dua Lipa's sea bass recipe. Packed with Mediterranean flair, it's a one-pan wonder perfect for warm evenings or an elegant weekend meal. With ingredients like kalamata olives, capers, and anchovies, this dish is bold, bright, and brimming with coastal vibes.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
It’s bursting with umami from anchovies, olives, and capers.
The sea bass stays flaky and moist, perfectly complemented by roasted garlic and tomatoes.
Great for pescatarians and anyone wanting a gourmet, no-fuss dinner.
Oven-roasted potatoes make it satisfying without being heavy.
What Is the Dish?
This sea bass recipe is inspired by a dinner Dua Lipa showcased on social media—a rustic, Mediterranean-style bake loaded with summer flavors. Sea bass, a mild white fish, shines against briny and aromatic ingredients like kalamata olives and fresh herbs. It's comfort food, but dressed up in coastal chic.
Pro Tips for the Best Sea Bass Bake
Use Yukon Gold or waxy potatoes: They hold their shape better when roasted.
Space the potatoes apart on the baking tray for crispier edges.
Add the fish and tomatoes after the potatoes have a head start—this keeps everything from overcooking.
Use whole garlic cloves with the skin on to avoid burning and for mellow, sweet flavor.
Don’t skimp on olive oil: It brings everything together and enhances the richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different fish instead of sea bass?
Yes, cod or halibut are great substitutes. Just ensure they're firm and can hold up in the oven.
Are anchovies necessary?
They add deep umami and saltiness. If you're hesitant, use fewer or mash them into the olive oil to mellow their intensity.
What type of tomatoes work best?
Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal—they roast quickly and burst with sweetness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the veggies in advance, but bake everything fresh for the best texture.
Is this dish spicy?
Only mildly—the chili flakes add warmth, not overwhelming heat. Adjust to your liking.
How to Store
Let the dish cool completely. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to preserve the crispness of the potatoes and fish.
How to Freeze
While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F.
Ingredients
1 serving of potatoes (about 1 medium Yukon Gold), sliced into discs
5 garlic cloves, whole and unpeeled
1 sea bass fillet
5 tinned anchovies
1/4 cup kalamata olives
1 tbsp capers
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 sprig fresh rosemary
A few fresh basil leaves
Salt & pepper, to taste
Pinch of chili flakes
Olive oil, for drizzling
How to Make Dua Lipa's Summer Sea Bass
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange the potato slices in a baking tray, spaced apart.
Drizzle generously with olive oil and season with salt.
Add garlic cloves and bake for about 30 minutes until the potatoes begin to crisp.
Remove from oven and add sea bass on top.
Surround the fish with anchovies, olives, capers, cherry tomatoes, rosemary, and basil.
Sprinkle with pepper and chili flakes. Drizzle more olive oil.
Return to oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and tomatoes are blistered.