This Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass recipe is a simple and flavorful dish that highlights the bold taste of harissa paired with tender sea bass. With just five ingredients, you can create a quick and healthy meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
What is Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass?
Jamie Oliver’s Harissa Sea Bass features fresh sea bass fillets coated with a spicy harissa paste and cooked with cherry tomatoes, olives, and lemon for a beautifully balanced dish. It’s light, vibrant, and packed with flavor.

Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes.
- Minimal ingredients: Requires only five pantry staples.
- Healthy and light: A great choice for a nutritious meal.
- Bursting with flavor: Harissa adds a spicy, smoky depth.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients Needed for Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass
- Sea bass fillets: 4, skin-on.
- Harissa paste: 2 tablespoons.
- Cherry tomatoes: 250g, halved.
- Black olives: 50g, pitted and halved.
- Lemon: 1, sliced into thin rounds.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Non-stick frying pan or skillet.
- Tongs for handling fish.
- Small knife for slicing ingredients.
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass
Step 1: Prepare the fish
Pat the sea bass fillets dry with paper towels. Spread harissa paste evenly over the flesh side of each fillet.
Step 2: Heat the pan
Place a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook the sea bass
Lay the fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 2 minutes on the flesh side.
Step 4: Add tomatoes and olives
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, and lemon slices around the fish. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the tomatoes to soften.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Transfer the sea bass fillets to plates, spoon the tomatoes, olives, and pan juices over the top, and serve immediately.

What to Serve With Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass
- Steamed couscous: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices.
- Green salad: Adds a refreshing crunch.
- Roasted vegetables: Complements the smoky harissa flavors.
- Crusty bread: Ideal for mopping up the sauce.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Harissa Sea Bass
- Use fresh sea bass: Fresh fish ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook: Sea bass cooks quickly, so monitor it closely to avoid drying out.
- Crisp the skin: Press the fillets down gently with a spatula to achieve crispy skin.
- Adjust spice levels: Use mild harissa for less heat or spicy harissa for extra kick.
- Add herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or coriander on top for added freshness.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh.
- Experiment with flavors: Try adding capers or a drizzle of honey for a unique twist.
What are Variations of Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass?
- Use a different fish: Try cod, salmon, or trout for a variation.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace sea bass with roasted eggplant or zucchini slices.
- Add greens: Toss in spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Citrus twist: Use orange slices instead of lemon for a sweeter flavor.
- Grilled version: Cook the fillets on a barbecue for a smoky touch.
How Do I Store Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass?
- In the refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Avoid freezing: The texture of the fish may change after freezing and thawing.
How Do I Reheat Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass?
- In the oven: Reheat at 180°C (350°F) for 8-10 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
- On the stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of olive oil or water.
Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 20g
FAQs
Can I use a different fish instead of sea bass?
Yes, you can use cod, salmon, trout, or any white fish fillets as a substitute. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish.
What can I use if I don’t have harissa paste?
If you don’t have harissa paste, you can use a mix of chili paste, smoked paprika, and olive oil, or try a mild chili sauce for a similar flavor.
How do I make the sea bass skin crispy?
To achieve crispy skin, ensure the pan is hot before adding the fish. Cook the fillets skin-side down for 3-4 minutes without moving them, and press lightly with a spatula for even crisping.
Is Jamie Oliver Harissa Sea Bass spicy?
Harissa adds a smoky, slightly spicy flavor, but the heat level depends on the type of harissa paste used. Opt for a mild version if you prefer less spice.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass is a quick, flavorful, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Try it today for a delightful culinary experience!
More Delicious Recipes
- Jamie Oliver Spicy Tomato Pasta
- Jamie Oliver Hunters Chicken
- Jamie Oliver Dan Dan Noodles
- Jamie Oliver Bobotie
- Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Tuna Steak
- Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients White Fish Stew
- Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Lamb Chops
Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Harissa Sea Bass Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Harissa Sea Bass features fresh sea bass fillets coated with a spicy harissa paste and cooked with cherry tomatoes, olives, and lemon for a beautifully balanced dish. It’s light, vibrant, and packed with flavor.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-searing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- Sea bass fillets: 4, skin-on.
- Harissa paste: 2 tablespoons.
- Cherry tomatoes: 250g, halved.
- Black olives: 50g, pitted and halved.
- Lemon: 1, sliced into thin rounds.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the fish
Pat the sea bass fillets dry with paper towels. Spread harissa paste evenly over the flesh side of each fillet.
Step 2: Heat the pan
Place a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cook the sea bass
Lay the fillets skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 2 minutes on the flesh side.
Step 4: Add tomatoes and olives
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, and lemon slices around the fish. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the tomatoes to soften.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Transfer the sea bass fillets to plates, spoon the tomatoes, olives, and pan juices over the top, and serve immediately.