When you crave something light, elegant, and bursting with Mediterranean freshness, Carrabba’s Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino is the dish to try. Priced at $21.29 and containing 700 calories, this entrée combines the delicate flavor of Branzino (European sea bass) with the bright tang of lemon butter and the aromatic depth of basil pesto. It’s a refined yet approachable seafood dish that captures the soul of Italian coastal cuisine.
What Is Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino?
Carrabba’s Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino is a beautifully prepared fish entrée featuring a fillet of Branzino, known for its mild, flaky texture and subtly sweet flavor. The fish is perfectly grilled or pan-seared, then topped with a lemon butter sauce and finished with a drizzle of basil pesto for a zesty, herbaceous touch.
Each bite balances richness with freshness the buttery sauce enhances the natural flavor of the fish, while the lemon adds brightness and the pesto infuses it with a garden-fresh aroma.
| Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino | $21.29 | 700 cal | Tender European sea bass topped with lemon butter pesto. |
Key Ingredients in Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino
Carrabba’s takes pride in using high-quality, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients to create this light yet flavorful dish.
| Ingredient | Description |
| Branzino (Sea Bass) | A mild, flaky white fish with delicate texture and subtle sweetness. |
| Lemon Butter Sauce | Creamy, tangy sauce made with butter, lemon juice, and a hint of garlic. |
| Basil Pesto | A fresh blend of basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, olive oil, and garlic. |
| Olive Oil | Adds a silky finish and enhances Mediterranean authenticity. |
| Herbs & Seasonings | A mix of salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to accentuate flavor. |
Together, these ingredients create a light yet satisfying meal, making Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino ($21.29 700 cal) a standout seafood option on Carrabba’s menu.
The Flavor Experience
One of the most appealing things about the Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino is its elegant balance of flavors. The lemon butter sauce provides creamy brightness, cutting through the richness of the fish. The pesto adds an herbal punch, giving each bite a burst of freshness.
The Branzino itself is cooked to perfection tender inside with a lightly crisped outer layer. Paired with seasonal vegetables or a side of saffron rice, it becomes a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
The Mediterranean Inspiration
Carrabba’s Italian Grill is known for blending traditional Italian flavors with modern cooking techniques. The Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino pays homage to the sun-soaked coasts of Southern Italy, where seafood, olive oil, lemon, and herbs are central to every meal.
Branzino, a Mediterranean staple, is often grilled whole in Italian households. Carrabba’s version refines this tradition with a delicate fillet presentation and a gourmet twist the pairing of lemon butter and basil pesto, two classic sauces that elevate the dish with elegance and depth.
Perfect Wine Pairings
A sophisticated entrée like Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino ($21.29 700 cal) deserves an equally refined pairing. Carrabba’s sommeliers recommend a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, both of which enhance the citrus and herb notes in the dish.
If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir also complements the Branzino’s subtle flavors without overpowering its freshness. For non-alcoholic pairings, try sparkling water with lemon or Carrabba’s Italian sodas for a refreshing balance.
Nutrition Overview Light Yet Fulfilling
While many seafood dishes can be heavy or fried, the Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino maintains a perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition.
Nutritional Breakdown:
- Calories: 700
- Protein: High-quality lean protein from Branzino
- Fat: Healthy fats from olive oil and pesto
- Carbs: Low-carb entrée, ideal for lighter dining
- Omega-3s: Naturally present in Branzino, beneficial for heart health
This makes Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino not only a gourmet choice but also a wholesome one perfect for those seeking a flavorful, nutrient-rich meal.
Why Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino Stands Out
Here’s why Carrabba’s Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino ($21.29 700 cal) continues to win the hearts of seafood lovers:
- Fresh, High-Quality Fish: Branzino is mild, flaky, and perfectly suited for Italian flavors.
- Balanced Flavors: The lemon butter and basil pesto provide richness and zest in harmony.
- Light Yet Satisfying: At 700 calories, it’s indulgent without being heavy.
- Mediterranean Heritage: Inspired by authentic Italian coastal cooking.
- Restaurant Favorite: A refined dish that showcases Carrabba’s culinary excellence.
Ideal Side Pairings
To complete your dining experience, pair Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino with sides that enhance its Mediterranean charm:
| Recommended Side | Why It Works |
| Sautéed Spinach | Adds a healthy green balance and earthy flavor. |
| Parmesan Risotto | Creamy texture complements the zesty lemon butter. |
| Grilled Asparagus | Light and crisp, enhances the fish’s freshness. |
| Garlic Mashed Potatoes | For a heartier option with smooth, buttery notes. |
Each pairing creates a complete, restaurant-quality meal worthy of any occasion.
Carrabba’s Commitment to Quality
Carrabba’s Italian Grill has earned its reputation for crafting dishes that feel homemade yet taste refined. The Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino is a perfect reflection of that philosophy simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary through passion and precision.
Every plate served is made to order, ensuring the Branzino retains its delicate texture and the sauces maintain their vibrant freshness. It’s not just a meal it’s a culinary experience that transports you to the Italian seaside.
How To order:
Carrabba’s has also made it easy to have the early bird menu at home. A lot of places will take these specials as curbside or delivered.
Steps to order:
- Go to the official Carrabba’s Italian Grill site or mobile application.
- Select your location.
- Inquire about menu specials or early bird menu at Carrabba’s.
- Put items in your cart and select pickup or delivery.
- Have your Italian favorites right in your home.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an entrée that blends flavor, freshness, and elegance, Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino ($21.29 700 cal) is the ultimate choice. It’s light enough for lunch yet satisfying enough for dinner, offering a perfect balance of buttery richness and citrus brightness.
This dish embodies Carrabba’s Italian Grill’s philosophy celebrating tradition, freshness, and passion in every bite. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply exploring Carrabba’s menu, Lemon Butter Pesto Branzino is a must-try masterpiece that proves simplicity and sophistication can exist on the same plate.
Indulge your senses, embrace the Mediterranean spirit, and enjoy a dining experience that’s as refreshing as the sea breeze itself.
