Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This easy baked halibut recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Halibut, known for its delicate, flaky texture and mild flavor, is a fantastic blank canvas for your culinary creativity. This recipe is simple to follow, even for beginner cooks, and promises a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this healthy and satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) halibut fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Season the Halibut: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor significantly.
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Arrange & Bake: Place the halibut fillets in the prepared baking dish. Top each fillet with a few lemon slices, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of parsley and dill. If using white wine, pour it evenly over the fillets.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the halibut is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets; thinner fillets will cook faster. Avoid overcooking, as it can result in dry halibut.
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Garnish & Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the halibut from the oven. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and elevates the presentation. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Halibut:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the fillets enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, use two baking dishes.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the halibut; it should easily separate into flakes when cooked through.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker fillets will require a longer cooking time. Always check for doneness before removing from the oven.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh herbs and a good quality olive oil make a big difference in the flavor of the dish.
Delicious Variations:
- Mediterranean Halibut: Add sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Halibut: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Garlic and Herb Butter Halibut: Melt butter with garlic, herbs, and lemon juice, and pour it over the halibut before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 8-10 grams
This easy baked halibut recipe is a fantastic choice for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner. Its simple preparation, combined with its incredible flavor, makes it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this homemade cooking masterpiece! The flaky texture and subtle flavor of the halibut paired with the bright lemon and fresh herbs create a truly unforgettable dish. This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. It’s a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can be easy to prepare.