Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic: The Perfect Seafood Dinner

Have you ever found yourself staring at a beautiful piece of fish at the market, wondering how to transform it into something spectacular without complicated techniques? After a long day, there’s something magical about the simplicity and elegance of Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic. This dish combines the delicate, flaky texture of premium halibut with the bright zest of lemon and aromatic punch of garlic – creating a meal that tastes like it took hours, when in reality, your oven does most of the work.

The aroma of Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic wafting through your kitchen promises a dining experience that’s both nutritious and indulgent. The fish emerges from the oven with a perfect golden crust while remaining tender and moist inside. What makes this easy Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic recipe truly special is how it elevates a simple piece of fish into a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort – perfect for impressing unexpected dinner guests or treating yourself to something special on a weeknight.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic

• ✅ This healthy Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids in every delicious bite
• ✅ Ready in just 20 minutes – making it the perfect quick Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic recipe for busy weeknights
• ✅ Simple Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic marinade that requires minimal prep work but delivers maximum flavor
• ✅ The cooking time for Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic is foolproof – no more overcooked fish!
• ✅ This Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic recipe is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and keto-friendly

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Ingredients for Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic

Fresh, quality ingredients are the key to making the best Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic. Here’s what you’ll need to serve 2 people:

• 1 pound fresh halibut fillet (look for firm, translucent pieces with no fishy smell)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (can substitute olive oil for a Mediterranean twist)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (fresh provides the brightest flavor, but jarred works too)
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked, depending on your preference)
• ½ teaspoon sea salt (flaky sea salt adds a nice finishing touch)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus additional wedges for serving)
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley (Italian flat-leaf preferred for stronger flavor)

Optional Additions:

• 1 tablespoon capers for a briny kick
• ¼ cup white wine to create a more luxurious sauce
• 1 shallot, finely minced, for subtle onion flavor
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

How to Make Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels – this is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden crust on your Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Create the Lemon Garlic Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well blended. This aromatic mixture will infuse your Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic with incredible flavor as it bakes.

Step 3: Prepare the Fish

Place the halibut fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture generously over the tops and sides of the fish, making sure to coat it completely. This ensures your Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic will be flavorful throughout.

Step 4: Add the Lemon Slices

Arrange the lemon slices on and around the fish. The lemon will release its oils and juice during baking, creating a delicate citrus steam bath for your Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. The exact cooking time for Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic depends on the thickness of your fillets – a good rule of thumb is 10 minutes per inch of thickness.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove your Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with any pan juices spooned over the top.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic

• Don’t overcook: The secret to perfect Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic is watching it closely. Halibut can quickly go from perfectly flaky to dry and tough. It’s done when it just turns opaque and flakes easily.
• Room temperature fish: Take your halibut out of the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps the Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic cook more evenly.
• Parchment paper method: For an impressive presentation, try baking your Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic in parchment packets. Place each portion on parchment with the seasonings, fold to seal, and bake. The fish steams in its own juices for incredible moisture.
• Herb variations: While parsley is classic, your Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic can be customized with dill, thyme, or basil for different flavor profiles.
• Lemon zest boost: For even more citrus intensity, add ½ teaspoon of lemon zest to your butter mixture before brushing it on the Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic

The best serving suggestions for Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic create a complete, balanced meal. Here are some perfect pairings:

Light and Fresh Sides

• Steamed asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil
• Roasted cherry tomatoes with balsamic glaze
• Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Sautéed zucchini ribbons with herbs

Starchy Accompaniments

• Perfectly steamed jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful juices
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes for a more indulgent meal
• Crusty artisan bread for mopping up the delicious sauce
• Lemon herb quinoa for a healthy grain option

Wine Pairings

A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay complements the delicate flavors of Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic beautifully, enhancing the citrus notes without overwhelming the fish.

Nutritional Information for Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic

The nutritional benefits of Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic make it a smart choice for health-conscious diners. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 10g (mostly heart-healthy from the fish)
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 640mg

Halibut is an excellent source of high-quality protein and contains essential omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health. Combined with the antioxidants in Lemon and garlic, this Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic recipe offers substantial nutritional benefits while remaining low in calories and carbohydrates.

Storage & Leftovers

While Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm in a 275°F oven just until heated through – about 10 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, which can make the fish rubbery.

For the best results with leftover Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic, consider repurposing it into a different dish:

• Flake it into a salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette
• Create fish tacos with avocado and fresh salsa
• Add to a pasta dish with olive oil and fresh herbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best sides to serve with baked halibut?

The best sides for Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic include roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, a light green salad, steamed rice, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, pair with something starchy and something green to complement the delicate flavor of the fish.

How long should I bake halibut at 400 degrees?

For perfectly cooked Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic, bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes for a 1-inch thick fillet. The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork but still remain moist. For thicker pieces, add about 2-3 minutes per additional half-inch of thickness.

Can I substitute other fish for halibut in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cod, sea bass, or mahi-mahi for halibut in this Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic recipe. Look for firm, white fish with a mild flavor. Adjust cooking times accordingly as thinner fillets will cook faster than thick halibut steaks.

What are the health benefits of eating halibut?

Halibut is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation. This makes Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic not just delicious but nutritious too. Halibut is also high in protein, B vitamins, potassium, and magnesium while being low in fat and calories.

Conclusion

Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic represents the perfect marriage of simplicity and elegance in home cooking. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that nourishes both body and soul. The bright, clean flavors let the quality of the halibut shine while the lemon and garlic provide just enough enhancement without overwhelming.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner routine, this Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic recipe deserves a place in your regular rotation. The combination of foolproof preparation, impressive presentation, and incredible taste makes it a winner for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Have you tried making Baked Halibut with Lemon and Garlic at home? Share your experience in the comments below, or tag us in your photos if you try this recipe. We’d love to see your culinary creations!