Grilled Halibut With Lemon Butter Sauce

To make grilled halibut with lemon butter sauce, start by preheating your grill to 400°F. Pat dry 6 oz halibut fillets, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side on clean, oiled grates. While grilling, prepare the lemon butter sauce by melting butter and adding minced garlic. Use a fish spatula for easier flipping and check doneness by gently pressing with a fork. Serve the grilled halibut topped with the tangy lemon butter sauce for a perfect summer meal. You’ll find this recipe offers versatility with various delicious variations to explore.

Ingredients and Preparation

Grilled Halibut with Lemon Butter Sauce

Grilled halibut with lemon butter sauce is a delightful seafood dish that combines the delicate flavors of fresh halibut with a zesty, rich sauce. This recipe showcases the natural taste of the fish while adding a touch of elegance with its simple yet flavorful accompaniment. Perfect for summer barbecues or elegant dinner parties, this dish offers a light and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C).
2. Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and brush them with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Place the halibut fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. While the fish is grilling, prepare the sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
6. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Whisk in the lemon juice, parsley, and thyme. Remove from heat and keep warm.
8. Once the halibut is cooked, transfer it to warm plates.
9. Drizzle the lemon butter sauce over the fish and garnish with lemon wedges.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Top Tips

• Choose fresh halibut fillets of even thickness for consistent cooking.
• Don’t move the fish too much while grilling to achieve nice grill marks.
• Use a fish spatula for easier flipping and to prevent the fillets from breaking.
• To check for doneness, gently press the fish with a fork. It should flake easily when cooked.
• If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broil the halibut in the oven.
• For extra flavor, marinate the halibut in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before grilling.

Variations

• Herb-crusted: Coat the halibut in a mixture of breadcrumbs and herbs before grilling.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the lemon butter sauce for a kick.
• Mediterranean: Top with diced tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese after grilling.
• Asian-inspired: Replace the lemon butter sauce with a soy-ginger glaze.
• Tropical: Grill pineapple slices alongside the halibut and serve with a mango salsa.
• Smoky: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the seasoning for a smoky flavor.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Servings	4
Calories	320
Total Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	110mg
Sodium	125mg
Carbohydrates	1g
Protein	32g

This grilled halibut dish is an excellent source of lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. It’s low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for those following a low-carb or keto diet. The lemon butter sauce adds richness but can be used sparingly to reduce calorie and fat content if desired. Halibut is also a good source of vitamins B12 and B6, as well as minerals like selenium and magnesium.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can Leftover Grilled Halibut Be Stored in the Refrigerator?

You’ll want to guarantee proper storage of leftover grilled halibut. Refrigerate it within two hours and consume within 3-4 days. For extended preservation, consider freezing leftovers. They’ll maintain quality for up to three months when frozen properly.

Can I Use Frozen Halibut for This Recipe?

You can use frozen halibut, but fresh is preferable. When cooking frozen halibut, thaw it completely first. Pat dry to remove excess moisture. Adjust cooking time slightly, as frozen fish may release more water during grilling. Monitor closely to prevent overcooking.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Grilled Halibut?

You’ll elevate your grilled halibut with a vibrant vegetable medley, showcasing seasonal produce and innovative flavor combinations. Complement this with garlic mashed potatoes, infusing them with roasted garlic for a sophisticated twist on a classic side dish.

Is Halibut a Sustainable Fish Choice?

You’ll find halibut sustainability varies by region. Pacific halibut’s well-managed, but Atlantic stocks face challenges. Check sustainable seafood guides for up-to-date information. Prioritize MSC-certified options to support halibut conservation efforts and innovative fishery management practices.

Can I Substitute the Lemon Butter Sauce With a Different Sauce?

You can absolutely substitute the sauce. Consider sauce alternatives like herb-infused oils or citrus vinaigrettes for flavor variations. Explore cooking techniques like pan-searing or broiling, and experiment with presentation ideas using colorful vegetable purees or infused foams.

Can Chimichurri Sauce Be Used as an Alternative for Grilled Halibut?

Chimichurri sauce can elevate the flavor of grilled halibut with its zesty and herbaceous notes. While traditionally paired with red meats, its versatility shines when used as an alternative marinade or topping for seafood. For inspiration, try adapting elements from a grilled steak chimichurri recipe to create a bold and satisfying dish.

Before You Go

You’ve now mastered the technique for preparing grilled halibut with lemon butter sauce. By following these precise steps, you’ll achieve a perfectly cooked fish with a flavorful, tangy accompaniment. Remember to monitor the halibut’s internal temperature and adjust grilling time as needed. Don’t overcook, as halibut can quickly become dry. With practice, you’ll refine your timing and technique, consistently producing a restaurant-quality dish. This recipe allows for variations in herbs and seasonings to suit your preferences.