This Orange Dijon Grilled Halibut is a tasty dish that’s hard to resist! The tangy orange and zesty Dijon mustard create a wonderful flavor that pairs perfectly with the flaky halibut.
Grilling adds a nice smoky touch, making it a go-to meal for sunny days. I love serving it with a fresh salad for a light and healthy dinner—just perfect for any occasion!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Halibut: This fish is mild and pairs perfectly with the marinade. If halibut is hard to find, you can substitute with cod or snapper, which also have a nice texture and flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Whole grain Dijon adds a lovely texture. If you want something less spicy, yellow mustard is a decent alternative, or even honey mustard for extra sweetness.
Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh juice makes a big difference in flavor. If you don’t have fresh oranges, bottled juice will work, but choose one without added sugars. For zest, you can use a little orange extract if you’re in a pinch.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. However, garlic powder can be used as a substitute; just use about 1/4 teaspoon instead of fresh cloves.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for a fruity flavor. You can use vegetable oil if that’s what you have, but I love the taste of the olive oil in this dish!
How Do I Grill Halibut Without It Sticking?
Grilling fish can sometimes be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get perfect halibut every time. First, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Ensure the grill is nice and hot before placing the fish on it. This helps create a sear.
- When placing the halibut on the grill, avoid moving it around too much. Let it sit for 4-5 minutes.
- When it’s ready to flip, it should release easily. If it’s sticking, give it a little more time.
By following these steps, you will have beautifully grilled halibut that’s full of flavor! Enjoy your cooking!
Orange Dijon Grilled Halibut Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 halibut fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (preferably whole grain)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
- Asparagus or green vegetables, for serving (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 20-30 minutes for marinating. Then, you’ll need around 10 minutes for grilling. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes for a delicious meal!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, fresh orange juice, orange zest, minced garlic, olive oil, and honey. Mix well until everything is combined smoothly. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Marinate the Halibut:
Place the halibut fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the marinade over the fish, ensuring they are well coated. Save the other half of the marinade for later use. Cover the dish or seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator for about 20 to 30 minutes. Be careful not to marinate too long as the acidity can cook the fish.
3. Grill the Halibut:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Once heated, remove the halibut from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
4. Grill Optional Vegetables:
While your halibut is grilling, feel free to throw some asparagus or your favorite green vegetables on the grill for a healthy side. Just a few minutes will do!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the halibut is fully cooked, take it off the grill. Arrange the fish on plates and drizzle with the reserved marinade. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices if you like. Serve immediately with the grilled vegetables.
Enjoy your flavorful, tangy Orange Dijon Grilled Halibut!
Can I Use Another Type of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While halibut is a great choice, you can substitute it with other firm white fish like cod, snapper, or even salmon if you want a richer flavor. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the fillets, so just keep an eye on them.
How Long Should I Marinate the Halibut?
Marinating the halibut for about 20 to 30 minutes is ideal. You want the flavors to penetrate the fish without the citrus starting to “cook” it. If marinated too long, the texture can become mushy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the marinade and marinate the fish a few hours in advance. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. However, it’s best to grill and serve the fish fresh for the best taste and texture.
What Sides Pair Well with Orange Dijon Grilled Halibut?
This halibut pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal!