Indulge in the rich flavors of the Bulgarian coast with this Grilled Sea Bass accompanied by crispy cheese and bacon rolls. This dish is a harmonious blend of delicate sea bass fillets and savory bacon-wrapped cheese, making for a truly satisfying meal.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
- 4 seabass fillets, about 200 grams each
- 60 ml olive oil
- 12-16 pitted olives
- 200 grams mild white Bulgarian cheese (or feta), cut into small strips
- 8 slices of bacon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Seabass
- Preheat your grill to 200°C (392°F).
- Drizzle the seabass fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper if desired.
- Place the fillets on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the fish is cooked through and slightly charred.
Step 2: Craft Cheese and Bacon Rolls
- Take a strip of Bulgarian cheese (or feta) and wrap it with a slice of bacon.
- Arrange the bacon-wrapped cheese rolls on a baking tray.
- Grill in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for 5-7 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is soft.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Place the grilled seabass fillets on individual plates.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, pitted olives, and the crispy cheese bacon rolls on the side.
- Serve immediately for best results.
Tips and Tricks
- For an extra crispy bacon wrap, broil the cheese-bacon rolls for 1-2 minutes after grilling.
- Use pitted olives to save time and improve presentation.
- Opt for wild-caught seabass for the freshest flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
For a Mediterranean touch, serve this dish alongside roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Pair with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the bacon and cheese.
Wine Pairing
- General Wine Suggestion: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs perfectly with the lightness of the seabass and the savory flavors of the bacon and cheese rolls.
- Bulgarian Wine Suggestion: A dry white Dimyat or a Misket from Bulgaria will complement the fish’s subtle flavors and elevate the bacon’s smoky notes.
Storage Suggestions
- Leftover seabass can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to maintain the crispy texture.
- Bacon and cheese rolls can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 950 mg
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as the bacon and cheese are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheese with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Low-Carb: This recipe is suitable for low-carb and keto diets, with minimal carbohydrates from the cheese.
About Grilled Sea Bass with Cheese-Bacon Rolls
This Grilled Sea Bass with Cheese-Bacon Rolls is a delightful combination of flavors that celebrates the bounty of the Black Sea. The mild and tender seabass, complemented by the richness of crispy bacon-wrapped cheese, creates a perfect balance of freshness and indulgence. This dish captures the essence of traditional Bulgarian flavors while elevating them with a modern twist.
Cultural Context
Seabass, or лаврак in Bulgarian, is a prized fish in the Black Sea region, though much of it is now imported from Greece and Turkey. Grilling seabass is a popular preparation method along Bulgaria’s coast, where seafood is often enjoyed fresh from the sea. The cheese and bacon rolls add a touch of Bulgarian culinary tradition, where dairy and meat combinations are commonly found. This dish reflects the fusion of coastal and inland influences in Bulgarian cuisine, combining the sea’s natural bounty with the hearty flavors of the land.
