Indulge in the exquisite flavors of the sea with our Butter Basted Halibut Steaks with Capers! This dish transforms simple halibut into a culinary masterpiece, boasting a golden crust and a rich, buttery sauce that's simply irresistible. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is not only quick to prepare—taking just 25 minutes from start to finish—but also delivers a burst of freshness with every bite. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 halibut steaks (about 200g each)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 halibut steaks, unsalted butter, capers, lemon, salt, pepper, and fresh parsley for garnish.
- Pat the halibut steaks dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear. Season both sides of the steaks generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt and become bubbly, but be careful not to let it brown.
- Once the butter is hot, carefully place the halibut steaks in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a golden crust to form.
- While the halibut is cooking, prepare the capers. Rinse and drain them if they are packed in salt or brine.
- After 4-5 minutes, gently flip the halibut steaks using a spatula. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet along with the drained capers.
- As the butter melts, tilt the skillet slightly and use a spoon to baste the halibut steaks with the melted butter. This will enhance the flavor and keep the fish moist. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the halibut is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- During the last minute of cooking, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the halibut and capers, allowing the citrus to brighten the dish.
- Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the halibut steaks to a serving plate and spoon the capers and buttery sauce over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as steamed vegetables or a light salad.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Halibut: When selecting halibut steaks, look for firm, moist flesh with a mild scent of the ocean. Freshness is key to achieving the best flavor.
- Pat Dry for a Perfect Sear: Ensure your halibut steaks are patted dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious golden crust during cooking.
- Control the Heat: Use medium-high heat to melt the butter without browning it. This will help create a nice sear on the fish while keeping the butter flavorful.
- Baste for Flavor: Remember to tilt the skillet and spoon the melted butter over the halibut while it cooks. This technique not only enhances flavor but also keeps the fish moist and tender.
- Don’t Overcook: Halibut cooks quickly; aim for an opaque color and flaky texture. It’s best to remove it from the heat just before it’s fully cooked, as it will continue to cook slightly from residual heat.
- Pair with Fresh Sides: Serve your halibut with light sides like steamed vegetables or a refreshing salad to complement the richness of the fish.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
