Perfectly seasoned and lightly charred, this healthy grilled halibut recipe offers a deliciously clean and flavorful meal that’s ideal for warm-weather dining or a quick weeknight dinner. Featuring a smoky paprika crust, bright citrus zest, and savory garlic, it’s a lean, protein-packed dish that pairs well with fresh vegetables or salads.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This grilled halibut recipe is light, nutritious, and full of flavor. The halibut fillets are tender, flaky, and enhanced with a vibrant spice mix that includes smoked paprika, cumin, and lemon zest. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings. Whether you’re following a pescatarian diet or simply looking for a clean, high-protein meal, this dish is a reliable go-to for healthy eating.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- halibut fillets
- olive oil
- garlic cloves, minced
- lemon peel (zest)
- ground black pepper
- kosher salt
- smoked paprika
- ground cumin
Directions
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere better.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, black pepper, kosher salt, smoked paprika, and cumin.
- Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the halibut fillets.
- Place the fillets on the preheated grill. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the fish becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges, fresh greens, or your choice of seasonal vegetables.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a bolder kick.
- Herb Blend: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for an aromatic finish.
- Citrus Marinade: Add a tablespoon of lemon or lime juice to the seasoning mix for more tang.
- Asian-Inspired Twist: Use sesame oil and a splash of soy sauce in place of olive oil and salt.
- Grilled Citrus Slices: Grill lemon or orange slices alongside the fish and serve them on top for enhanced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover halibut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fish in a covered skillet over low heat or warm gently in the microwave. Avoid overheating to prevent the fish from drying out. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well when done carefully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen halibut for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure the fillets are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and grilling.
What’s the best way to prevent halibut from sticking to the grill?
Oil the grill grates lightly before cooking, and avoid moving the fish too soon—let it develop a crust before flipping.
Can I bake the halibut instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
What side dishes pair well with grilled halibut?
Serve with grilled vegetables, quinoa, wild rice, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Is halibut a healthy choice of fish?
Yes, halibut is low in fat, high in protein, and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
How can I tell when the halibut is fully cooked?
The fish should be opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I substitute another fish for halibut?
Yes, cod, mahi-mahi, or grouper are great alternatives with similar texture and flavor.
What kind of grill is best for this recipe?
Both outdoor grills and indoor grill pans work well. Just ensure even heat and a properly oiled surface.
Can I prepare the seasoning mixture in advance?
Yes, the spice mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
How do I add more flavor without adding calories?
Use more fresh herbs, lemon zest, or a splash of vinegar for bright, calorie-free enhancements.
Conclusion
This healthy grilled halibut recipe is a fast, flavorful, and nutritious option for any meal. With a bold blend of spices and a zesty citrus finish, it’s perfect for those seeking a light yet satisfying dish. Whether you’re grilling for guests or preparing a quick solo dinner, this recipe delivers clean, delicious results every time.
Healthy Grilled Halibut
A quick, healthy grilled halibut recipe with smoky paprika, lemon zest, and garlic for a flavorful and light seafood dish perfect for summer or weeknight meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 2 halibut fillets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp lemon peel (zest)
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Pat halibut fillets dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, pepper, salt, paprika, and cumin.
- Brush the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the halibut.
- Place fillets on the hot grill and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve immediately with fresh greens, lemon wedges, or seasonal vegetables.
Notes
- Ensure the grill is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Halibut can be substituted with other firm white fish like cod or mahi-mahi.
- Pairs well with quinoa, grilled asparagus, or a citrusy salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 55mg