These healthy halibut recipes make dinner a breeze! With tender, flaky fish and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a nutritious meal in no time.
I love how versatile halibut is! Whether baked with veggies or grilled with spices, it always tastes amazing. Plus, who can resist a quick and tasty dinner? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Halibut: This white fish is flaky and mild. If you can’t find halibut, cod or tilapia are great substitutes. Both have a similar texture and will work well in this recipe.
Olive Oil: A staple for cooking, it adds healthy fats. If you prefer, you can swap it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point, especially when roasting at high temperatures.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley, dill, and thyme add brightness. If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs will work—just use one-third of the amount needed for fresh, as they are more concentrated.
Vegetables: The recipe calls for cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and onion. You can mix in other veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots based on your preference or what’s in season!
How Do I Ensure My Halibut is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking halibut can be tricky if you’re not familiar with it. The key is to ensure it’s cooked just right so it doesn’t dry out. Here’s how:
- Pat the fillets dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
- Watch for the flakiness; it should easily flake with a fork when done. This usually takes about 12-15 minutes in a hot oven.
- Use a meat thermometer if you like! Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked halibut every time!
Healthy Halibut with Roasted Vegetables and Lemon Herb Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Halibut:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Lemon Herb Sauce:
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
For the Roasted Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes total cooking time. You’ll have a healthy meal ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is perfect for roasting and will help all the flavors come together beautifully.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, toss together the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, some salt, and black pepper. Make sure they are well coated! Spread the vegetables evenly on a lined baking sheet and roast in the oven for 15 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize.
3. Season the Halibut:
While the veggies are roasting, take the halibut fillets and pat them dry using paper towels. Brush both sides of the fillets with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over them. This will give the fish a tasty kick!
4. Combine and Roast:
After the veggies have been roasting for 15 minutes, move them to the sides of the baking sheet to make space for the halibut. Place the seasoned halibut fillets in the center of the sheet. Return everything to the oven and roast for another 12-15 minutes, or until the halibut flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.
5. Make the Lemon Herb Sauce:
While the fish and veggies are finishing up, prepare the lemon herb sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the grated lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, dill, and thyme.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the halibut and vegetables are out of the oven, drizzle the lemon herb sauce over both before serving. Enjoy your healthy halibut dish right away with a side of whole grain rice or quinoa if you’d like!
This recipe is light, flavorful, and packed with nutrients — perfect for a healthy and easy dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Halibut Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If using frozen halibut, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps it sear better in the oven.
What Other Vegetables Can I Include?
You can definitely customize the vegetables! Asparagus, broccoli, carrots, or even bell peppers in different colors would work well. Just ensure they cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them or warm them up gently in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the vegetables and season the halibut ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble just before roasting for a quick dinner after a busy day!