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Perfect Baked Halibut with Herb Butter

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A quick and elegant baked halibut recipe featuring a rich herb butter with fresh parsley, thyme, lemon zest, and garlic. Perfectly flaky and tender fish with a buttery, flavorful topping.

Ingredients

  • Halibut fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each, skinless, preferably fresh or thawed)
  • Unsalted butter (4 tbsp / 60 g, softened)
  • Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, finely chopped)
  • Fresh thyme (1 tsp, finely chopped)
  • Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • Garlic (1 small clove, minced)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
  • Olive oil (1 tbsp for greasing)
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika
  • Optional: chopped chives instead of parsley
  • Optional: splash of white wine or dry vermouth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with finely chopped parsley, thyme, minced garlic, and lemon zest. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
  3. Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the halibut fillets in the prepared baking dish, spaced evenly apart.
  5. Dollop the herb butter generously over the top of each fillet, covering the surface without pooling.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness (about 1 to 1.5 inches). The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done. Avoid overbaking.
  7. Optional: For a lightly golden top, switch to the broiler in the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Remove from oven and let the fish rest for a couple of minutes to allow juices to settle.
  9. Serve immediately, spooning any melted herb butter from the pan over the fillets for extra richness.

Notes

Patting the fish dry is crucial to avoid sogginess. Use softened butter for smooth herb butter. Watch oven temperature to avoid overcooking. Let fish rest after baking for juiciness. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil spread.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked halibut, herb butter, easy fish recipe, elegant dinner, quick seafood, healthy fish, gluten-free, dairy-free option

Find it online: https://swooshspice.com/perfect-baked-halibut-with-herb-butter-easy-elegant-dinner-recipe/