Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the vibrant coastal kitchens of Bilbao, where fresh seafood meets bold Mediterranean flavors. This Halibut with Peppers (Mero a la Bilbaina) is not just a recipe—it's a culinary journey that promises to elevate your cooking skills and tantalize your taste buds with its perfect balance of tender fish and colorful, aromatic peppers. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this stunning Spanish classic that looks gourmet but is surprisingly simple to prepare!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 halibut fillets
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the red and green bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic cloves and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions and sauté them until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Next, add the sliced red and green bell peppers to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the peppers are tender but still retain some crunch.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Then, sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- While the vegetables are cooking, season the halibut fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. In a separate pan, heat a little more olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the halibut fillets in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork. Be careful not to overcook the fish.
- Once the halibut is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a minute. Meanwhile, check the vegetable mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- To serve, place a portion of the sautéed peppers and onions on each plate, and top with a halibut fillet. Drizzle with any remaining pan juices if desired. Enjoy your Halibut with Peppers Mero a la Bilbaina!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Halibut: Select firm, white halibut fillets with a mild, sweet flavor for the best results.
- Pepper Perfection: Cut peppers into uniform strips to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Use medium heat when sautéing vegetables to prevent burning and maintain their vibrant colors.
- Don't Overcook the Fish: Halibut cooks quickly—4-5 minutes per side is ideal. Look for a golden exterior and flaky texture.
- Season Generously: The paprika is key to authentic flavor, so don't be shy with your seasoning.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the fish rest for a minute after cooking to retain its moisture and tenderness.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pan, to maintain the perfect texture of both fish and vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 312kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 28g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
