For some people, cooking halibut steaks is a mystery. Halibut steaks are the fish you always treat yourself to at a restaurant, but perhaps shy away from in your own kitchen. However, this species and cut of fish is so packed with nutrients and loaded with flavor that once you learn a few simple tips, your at-home, health-forward seafood game will exist on an entirely different level.
What Makes a Halibut Steak Unique?
Before we dive into how to cook halibut steaks, here’s a little basic fish vocabulary: a fish fillet is a cut of fish where the flesh has been sliced away from the bone. A fish steak is cut perpendicular to the bone, and often includes that bone along with the fish flesh.
So, what makes a halibut steak such a spectacular cut of fish? Similar to how a bone-in rib eye steak is packed with flavor thanks to the presence of the bone, cooking halibut steaks is extra flavorful for the same reason. And because this mild white fish is so versatile, it can be prepared in various ways, from broiled and baked, to grilled, pan seared or poached.
One important thing to remember is that halibut steaks have a very low oil content. As such, it will dry out faster if it is overcooked, so you need to pay close attention to recommended cooking times and keep an eye on the texture of your fish’s flesh as it cooks.
Best Ways to Cook Halibut Steaks
There are so many options and so many simple ways to cook halibut steak that you can’t go wrong. Here are a few halibut steak recipes, sure to satisfy your taste buds and elevate your seafood game forever — all from the comfort of your kitchen!
Seared Halibut Steaks
This pan fried halibut steak recipe with creamy peppercorn sauce is hearty and flavorful but easy to cook in only 15 minutes. A lighter and healthier take on Steak au Poivre, this recipe will make you feel like you are in a French bistro. A simple sear on the halibut steak starts off the dish. To check for proper doneness you can see if the center is opaque and the fish easily flakes with a fork. Building the creamy peppercorn sauce is then done in the same pan. Pour over the steaks, and you have dinner.
Grilled Pacific Halibut Steaks
Grilling is a great way to cook halibut steaks, and this chimichurri sauce is fresh and bright. The charred flavor pairs well with the herby quality of the chimichurri. It can be done on the backyard grill or inside on a cast iron grill pan. Make sure the grill grates are clean, oiled, and hot. The chimichurri is easily made with a mixture of parsley and cilantro. If you are cilantro averse add more parsley. Have this great meal on your table in less than 20 minutes.
Pacific Halibut Steak Skillet Fajitas
This one pan Halibut Steak Skillet Fajitas recipe with cumin-chili marinade is sure to please on Taco Tuesday. A cast iron skillet is best to get the char on the peppers and onions, but a stainless pan can be used. The quick marinade packs in extra flavors but still allows dinner to be ready in 30 minutes.
Grilled Halibut Steaks in Lemongrass Ginger Marinade
Add body and character to grilled halibut steaks with peanuts, lemongrass, and ginger. The marinade is done countertop with no need for bags. Searing halibut on medium-high heat to pack in the zesty flavor is key.
Pacific Halibut Steak and Eggs
This new take on a classic breakfast dish is a healthier, protein-packed way to start your day. One pan and 20 minutes are all you’ll need. Sear the fish in butter and cracks the eggs alongside. Satisfy your breakfast cravings with this lean protein dish – easy to make, easy to clean up.
Red Pepper Fish Escabeche with Halibut Steaks
The light yet acidic balance of flavors will make this halibut steak recipe a staple in your kitchen. Red pepper and fresh herbs create the sour and sweet flavors that pair well with the meaty texture of halibut. Short on time – no problem – this dish is ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect for a tasty weeknight meal.
Pan Seared Halibut Steak
Pan searing is a quick and effective way to get a juicy halibut steak. Follow these steps for pan-searing using simple salt and pepper, or add your favorite sauce on top of the halibut steak once it's done.
