Fast WordPress setup for a content site (plugins and settings)

What is the minimal WordPress setup you use for a content-focused site?

Recommend essential plugins (SEO, caching, security, backups), critical wp-config.php tweaks or wp-admin settings, and one recommended theme type. Include any quick hardening or performance tweaks to do immediately after install.

You can check out lightweight theme, one SEO/yoastseo plugin, caching plugin, regular backups, and basic security hardening. My advice is to not load up a fresh install with too many plugins as that usually causes more problems than it solves. Also, disable unused features, change default settings, and focus on site speed from day one.