Easy Grilled Halibut Recipe
This easy grilled halibut recipe is not just flavorful but also incredibly quick to prepare, making it the perfect dinner option for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is both healthy and delightful, ensuring your family or guests are impressed with your culinary skills. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is a guaranteed hit.
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family vacation at the coast. The fresh taste of halibut and the simplicity of using the grill, while enjoying a sunset dinner with loved ones, has made this dish a family favorite. It brings back memories of laughter, ocean breezes, and unforgettable meals, and it’s one reason I love preparing this dish, especially when I want to reminisce those cherished times.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is not only straightforward but also emphasizes the natural flavors of halibut, enhanced by simple seasonings. You’ll love how the grill imparts a subtle smokiness to the fish, creating a perfectly balanced dish. Also, halibut is rich in nutrients and low in calories, making it an ideal choice for healthy eating without sacrificing taste. The minimal preparation and quick cooking time fit perfectly into a busy lifestyle.
Ingredients Notes
The key to this recipe is using fresh halibut. Look for firm, moist fillets with a pleasant ocean scent. If halibut is unavailable, you can substitute with cod or sea bass, which offer similar textures. The basic seasonings—salt, pepper, and olive oil—enhance the fish’s flavors without overpowering them. For a citrusy twist, add fresh lemon juice or zest before grilling, which complements the fish beautifully.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2
Pat the halibut fillets dry with a paper towel. This ensures a good sear and prevents the fish from steaming rather than grilling.
Step 3
Season both sides of the fillets with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let them sit for about 5-10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 4
Place the fillets on the grill skin-side down. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
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Step 5
Remove from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of sides.
Storage Options
Store any leftover halibut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Fish can be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm in an oven at low heat to maintain moisture and avoid drying out.
Variations & Substitutions
For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to your seasoning mix. For a garlic herb twist, mix minced garlic with melted butter and fresh herbs like dill or parsley, and brush over cooked fillets. To make it even more nourishing, pair with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a chilled white wine and can be served for a casual family dinner or a more formal dinner party. Enhance your meal with side dishes like roasted asparagus, herbed quinoa, or a light buttered pasta. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy outdoors, especially during warm summer evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen halibut for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen halibut. Ensure it is thawed completely before preparing the dish. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or place it in cold water to expedite the process. Make sure to pat dry before seasoning and grilling to get that perfect texture.
What’s the best way to know if the halibut is cooked? Halibut is cooked when it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Another foolproof method is to check the internal temperature, which should read at least 145°F (63°C). Overcooking can lead to dry, tough fish, so watch carefully.
What if I don’t have a grill? No grill? No problem! You can easily cook halibut on a stovetop using a grill pan or even bake it in an oven. For stovetop cooking, use medium-high heat and follow the same timing as grilling. For oven baking, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for around 10-15 minutes.
Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or an impressive dinner spread, this simple yet elegant dish is sure to delight. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and make it your own, passing on the joy of this easy grilled halibut recipe to your table time and time again.
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Easy Grilled Halibut Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds halibut fillets skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the halibut fillets.
- Place the halibut fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
