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Pan-Seared Halibut with Caper Sauce

25 min 4 servings Medium
Halibut, with its mild flavour and flaky texture, is a favourite among seafood enthusiasts. Paired with a tangy caper sauce, this dish transforms into a gourmet experience that’s both simple and impressive. This recipe celebrates the delicate taste of halibut, enhanced by the briny punch of capers and the brightness of lemon. It's ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a sophisticated meal without extensive preparation. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this dish is a delicious choice featuring fresh, quality ingredients prepared with care.

Instructions

1

Prepare the Halibut

Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Pro tip: Ensure the fillets are dry for a better sear.

2

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Pro tip: Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.

3

Sear the Halibut

Add halibut fillets to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.

4

Make the Caper Sauce

In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add capers and garlic, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Reduce heat to prevent burning the garlic.

5

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce by half.

Pro tip: This step adds depth to the sauce.

6

Finish the Sauce

Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Remove from heat.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

7

Serve

Plate the halibut and spoon the caper sauce over the top. Serve immediately.

Pro tip: Garnish with additional parsley for colour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

  • Pat the halibut fillets dry to ensure a good sear.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavour.
  • Preheat your pan to medium-high for a perfect crust.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are capers?

Capers are small, edible flower buds from the Capparis spinosa plant, often pickled and used to add flavour to dishes.

How do you cook halibut?

Halibut can be pan-seared, baked, or grilled. For this recipe, we sear it in a hot pan for a golden crust.

What does halibut taste like?

Halibut has a mild, sweet flavour with a firm, flaky texture, making it versatile for various recipes.

How many calories are in halibut with caper sauce?

This recipe contains approximately 320 calories per serving.

Can I substitute another fish for halibut?

Yes, you can substitute cod or haddock, as they have similar textures and mild flavours.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pan-seared halibut with a side of roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad to complement the richness of the fish and sauce. For storage, any leftover halibut can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

35g

Protein

18g

Fat

2g

Carbs

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Ninja Express Chop Electric Food Chopper, 200-Watt, One-Touch Pulse, for Chopping, Mincing, and Pureeing – BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe, with Storage Lid, 16oz, NJ100C (Canadian Version)

Kitchen Appliances · Food Processors

Ninja Express Chop Electric Food Chopper, 200-Watt, One-Touch Pulse, for Chopping, Mincing, and Pureeing – BPA-Free, Dishwasher Safe, with Storage Lid, 16oz, NJ100C (Canadian Version)

$29.99

SONGMICS Cabinet Organizer Shelf, Set of 2 Kitchen Counter Shelves, Kitchen Storage, Spice Rack, Stackable, Expandable, Metal and Engineered Wood, Ink Black and Natural Beige UKCS02NB

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