Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This panko breaded halibut recipe is your answer. It's a delicious dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to a fantastic homemade dinner. This recipe offers a delightful balance of crispy, crunchy panko breading and flaky, succulent halibut, all ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready to experience a new level of easy recipes and healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) halibut fillets, skin on or off (your preference)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Halibut
Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a perfectly crispy breading. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with the panko bread crumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, oregano, and garlic powder. This assembly-line approach makes the breading process quick and efficient.
Step 3: Bread the Halibut
Dredge each halibut fillet in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, press the fillet into the panko mixture, making sure the breading adheres evenly.
Step 4: Pan-Fry to Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded halibut fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the cooked halibut from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. This simple dish is a perfect example of delicious dishes made easy.
Cooking Tips for Panko-Perfect Halibut:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy, not crispy, halibut.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your halibut fillets. Always use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the panko mixture for extra flavor. Consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Variations:
- Baked Halibut: For a healthier option, bake the breaded halibut in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Lemon-Herb Butter: Melt butter with lemon juice and fresh herbs (dill, parsley, thyme) and drizzle over the cooked halibut.
- Different Fish: This recipe works well with other firm white fish like cod or tilapia.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This panko breaded halibut recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. It's a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!