Are you looking for a healthy and delicious weeknight dinner that's surprisingly quick to make? Look no further! This air fryer swordfish recipe delivers perfectly cooked, flaky swordfish with a beautiful sear, all without the fuss of traditional pan-frying or grilling. It's one of those easy recipes that's sure to become a staple in your healthy meals rotation, a true champion among quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 2 (6-ounce) swordfish steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Swordfish
Pat the swordfish steaks dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a nice sear in the air fryer. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and lemon zest.
Step 2: Add the Oil
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over both sides of the seasoned swordfish steaks. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Step 3: Air Fry the Swordfish
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the swordfish steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the swordfish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your steaks and your air fryer model. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the swordfish from the air fryer and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with a simple salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Air Fryer Swordfish Success:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation and results in uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the swordfish reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your steaks and your air fryer model. Always start with the lower end of the recommended time and check for doneness.
Variations:
- Spicy Swordfish: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Swordfish: Add 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme and a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese after cooking.
- Lemon-Herb Butter: Melt a tablespoon of butter with lemon juice and fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley) and drizzle over the cooked swordfish.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
This air fryer swordfish recipe offers a simple yet elegant way to enjoy this delicious and healthy fish. It's a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious dishes with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Enjoy!