In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined. The acidity from the lemon juice will begin to gently "cook" the exterior of the fish while the garlic and thyme infuse it with classic Mediterranean flavors. Set the marinade aside and prepare your sea bass fillets by patting them dry with paper towels—this ensures better contact with the grill later.

Place the dried sea bass fillets in a shallow dish or resealable container and pour the Mediterranean marinade from Step 1 over them, making sure each fillet is well coated on both sides. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours—I find that even 30 minutes gives excellent flavor, so don't stress if you're short on time. The longer marinating time allows the herbs and garlic to penetrate the delicate fish more deeply.

About 10 minutes before you're ready to cook, heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F if using a gas grill). While it preheats, remove the marinated sea bass from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes so the fillets cook more evenly. Lightly oil the grill grates with a folded paper towel dipped in oil to prevent the delicate fish from sticking.

Remove the sea bass from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid—the fish has already absorbed the flavors it needs. Place the fillets skin-side down on the preheated grill and cook for 5-6 minutes without moving them, allowing a light char to develop. Gently flip each fillet using a thin spatula and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the flesh side until the fish is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. I like to test doneness by gently pressing the thickest part of the fillet—it should feel firm but still have a slight spring to it.

Transfer the grilled sea bass to serving plates while still warm. Arrange fresh lemon wedges alongside each fillet for guests to squeeze over as desired—the brightness of fresh lemon juice complements the charred, Mediterranean-seasoned fish beautifully.