Grilled Halibut
Tender, flaky halibut fillets marinated in a bright lemon-herb sauce and grilled to perfection. This simple, elegant dish captures the fresh flavors of the Pacific Northwest and is ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Marinade
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh dill, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Marinate the Halibut
- b.Pat the halibut fillets completely dry with paper towels. This helps them sear nicely.
- c.Place the fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the fish, turning each fillet to ensure it's evenly coated.
- d.Let marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes while the grill preheats. Do not exceed 30 minutes, as the acid in the lemon juice can alter the fish's texture.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Preheat and Oil the Grill
- b.Preheat your outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature of 400-450°F (200-230°C).
- c.Once hot, clean the grill grates thoroughly with a grill brush.
- d.Using tongs, dip a folded paper towel in vegetable oil and carefully wipe the grates. This is a crucial step to prevent the delicate fish from sticking.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the Fish
- b.Remove the halibut from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the fillets on the hot, oiled grates.
- c.Grill for 4-6 minutes on the first side, or until grill marks appear and the fish releases easily from the grates.
- d.Using a wide fish spatula, carefully flip the fillets. Grill for another 3-5 minutes on the second side.
- e.The halibut is done when it is opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should read 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Transfer the grilled halibut to a platter and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- c.Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the fish.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best results, choose halibut fillets that are uniform in thickness, ideally around 1-inch (2.5 cm). This ensures they cook evenly.
- 2Do not press down on the fish with your spatula while it's grilling. This can squeeze out moisture and cause it to dry out.
- 3If using a grill pan, ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated as it can produce some smoke.
- 4Resist the urge to flip the fish too early. It will release from the grill grates naturally when it has a good sear.
- 5Patting the fish dry before marinating is key for achieving a beautiful sear and preventing it from steaming on the grill.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Swap
Feel free to substitute other fresh herbs. Thyme, oregano, or chives would also be delicious in the marinade.
Citrus ChangeCitrus Change
Use fresh lime juice or even orange juice instead of lemon for a different citrusy flavor profile.
Add Some HeatAdd Some Heat
For a spicy kick, add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Different FishDifferent Fish
This marinade works wonderfully with other firm white fish like cod, mahi-mahi, or swordfish. Adjust grilling time based on the thickness of the fillets.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Lean Protein
Halibut is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Heart-Healthy Omega-3s
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, this dish helps reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease triglycerides, all of which contribute to better cardiovascular health.
Supports Brain Function
The omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, found in halibut are crucial for brain health. They play a key role in maintaining cognitive function, memory, and focus.
Excellent Source of Selenium
A single serving of halibut provides a significant amount of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, supports thyroid function, and boosts the immune system.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of this Grilled Halibut contains approximately 280-300 calories, making it a light yet satisfying main course. The exact count depends on the size of the fillet and the amount of oil used.