Baked Halibut: A Simple, Elegant Recipe
Looking for a delicious and healthy weeknight dinner that's also impressive enough for guests? Look no further than this baked halibut recipe. Halibut, a firm, flaky white fish, is incredibly versatile and absorbs flavors beautifully. This recipe highlights the halibut's natural flavor with simple, fresh ingredients, resulting in a meal that's both satisfying and elegant. It's perfect for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or even a solo treat.
Why This Baked Halibut Recipe Works
This recipe focuses on simplicity and letting the quality of the halibut shine. We'll be using minimal ingredients to create maximum flavor. Here's why it's a winner:
- Easy to follow: Even beginner cooks can master this recipe.
- Quick to prepare: Minimal prep time means more time to enjoy your delicious meal.
- Healthy and nutritious: Halibut is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Deliciously versatile: Easily adapt this recipe to your taste preferences.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs halibut fillet, skin on or off (your preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: Fresh dill sprigs, lemon wedges
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the halibut cooks evenly and to perfection.
- Prepare the halibut: Pat the halibut fillet dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes crispier skin (if using skin-on).
- Create the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Season the halibut: Place the halibut fillet in a baking dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the fish is evenly coated.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the halibut is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillet.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and lemon wedges, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Baked Halibut:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked halibut will be dry and tough. It's better to slightly undercook it than overcook it.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the halibut. If it flakes easily, it's ready.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to customize the flavor profile.
- Pair with sides: This baked halibut pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen halibut?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking.
Q: What if I don't have fresh dill?
A: You can substitute with other herbs like parsley or chives, or even omit it altogether.
Q: How do I know if the halibut is cooked through?
A: The halibut should flake easily with a fork and be opaque throughout.
This simple baked halibut recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!
