If you’ve shied away from cooking halibut because you think it’s too delicate or bland, you’re missing out on a versatile canvas for incredible flavors.
This mild white fish actually holds up beautifully to various seasonings and cooking methods, transforming ordinary dinners into memorable meals.
From zesty Mediterranean toppings to rich coconut curry baths, these eight baked halibut recipes will change how you see this premium seafood.
Each dish promises restaurant-quality results with surprisingly straightforward preparation.
Lemon Herb Baked Halibut With Mediterranean Olive Tapenade
This delicate halibut dish celebrates the flavors of the Mediterranean with bright lemon, fresh herbs, and a rich olive tapenade. The mild, flaky fish serves as the perfect canvas for the bold flavors, creating a meal that’s both elegant and satisfying. Perfect for special occasions or a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mixed olives (kalamata, green), pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed
- 1 small shallot, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, parsley, and lemon zest to create a marinade.
Step 3: Place the halibut fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper, then brush generously with the herb marinade.
Step 4: Bake the halibut for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in the center.
Step 5: While the fish is baking, prepare the olive tapenade by combining chopped olives, capers, shallot, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, and oregano in a small bowl. Mix well and let sit to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Once the fish is done, remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes.
Step 7: Serve each halibut fillet topped with a generous spoonful of the Mediterranean olive tapenade and a lemon wedge on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Garlic Butter Halibut With Roasted Vegetables
This simple yet elegant dish pairs tender halibut fillets with a rich garlic butter sauce and colorful roasted vegetables. The fish bakes to flaky perfection while the vegetables caramelize, creating a complete and nutritious meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning)
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, half of the dried herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, remaining dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Spread the vegetables evenly on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
Step 5: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and create spaces among the vegetables for the halibut fillets.
Step 7: Place the halibut fillets on the baking sheet and spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
Step 8: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the halibut flakes easily with a fork and the vegetables are tender.
Step 9: Serve immediately, spooning any melted garlic butter from the pan over the fish and vegetables.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 395 per serving
- Protein: 42g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Honey Soy Glazed Halibut With Sesame Crust
This elegant honey soy glazed halibut combines the delicate flavor of fresh halibut with a sweet and savory Asian-inspired glaze.
The sesame seed crust adds a wonderful texture and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the flaky fish, while the honey soy marinade infuses the halibut with a delicious umami taste.
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar to make the glaze.
Step 3: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Place them in a shallow dish and pour half of the glaze over them, turning to coat. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Place the sesame seeds on a small plate. Remove the halibut from the marinade and press the top of each fillet into the sesame seeds to create a crust.
Step 5: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the halibut fillets sesame seed-side down and cook for 2 minutes until seeds are golden brown.
Step 6: Carefully flip the fillets and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: While the fish is baking, simmer the remaining glaze in a small saucepan until it thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 8: Serve the halibut drizzled with the reduced glaze and garnished with sliced green onions and lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fiber: 1g
Creamy Coconut Curry Halibut
This elegant Creamy Coconut Curry Halibut brings together delicate halibut fillets with the rich flavors of coconut milk and aromatic curry spices. The gentle poaching method keeps the fish tender while infusing it with the fragrant sauce, creating a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime zest
- Steamed rice or cauliflower rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season halibut fillets with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toast the spices for about 30 seconds to release their flavors.
Step 5: Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth, then add honey and lime juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Carefully place the seasoned halibut fillets into the sauce and spoon some sauce over the top of each fillet.
Step 7: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 8: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime zest before serving over steamed rice.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Herb-Crusted Halibut With Lemon Yogurt Sauce
This delicate herb-crusted halibut delivers a perfect balance of flavors with its crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior. The invigorating lemon yogurt sauce adds a bright, tangy complement to the rich fish, making this an elegant yet simple dish perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 small cucumber, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Mix well to confirm the herbs and oil are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with the remaining salt and pepper.
Step 4: Brush the top of each fillet with the remaining olive oil, then press the herb mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet.
Step 5: Place the fillets herb-side up on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: While the fish is baking, prepare the lemon yogurt sauce by combining the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, honey, cucumber, mint, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 7: Serve the halibut immediately with a generous dollop of the lemon yogurt sauce on the side or drizzled over the top.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Sugar: 5g
- Calcium: 150mg
Spicy Moroccan-Style Baked Halibut
This Spicy Moroccan-Style Baked Halibut brings the exotic flavors of North Africa to your dinner table. The blend of warm spices, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful crust on tender halibut fillets, while the gentle baking method guarantees the fish remains moist and flaky.
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
- ¼ cup sliced almonds
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to form a paste.
Step 3: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Spread the spice mixture evenly over the top of each fillet, covering completely.
Step 5: Sprinkle half of the chopped herbs over the fillets.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Step 7: While the fish is baking, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the fish from the oven and garnish with toasted almonds and remaining fresh herbs.
Step 9: Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of couscous or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Potassium: 820mg
- Vitamin A: 8% DV
- Vitamin C: 15% DV
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
Miso-Glazed Halibut With Ginger and Scallions
This elegant yet simple miso-glazed halibut combines the savory depth of miso paste with fresh ginger and vibrant scallions. The fish bakes to tender perfection while developing a slightly caramelized glaze that’s both sweet and umami-rich.
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons white miso paste
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced ginger, garlic, and white parts of the scallions until smooth.
Step 3: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush both sides of each fillet with vegetable oil.
Step 4: Generously brush the top of each fillet with the miso mixture, reserving about 2 tablespoons for later.
Step 5: Bake the halibut for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: During the last 2 minutes of baking, brush the fillets with the remaining miso mixture and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with the green parts of the scallions.
Step 8: Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Sugars: 9g
Parmesan and Herb Panko-Crusted Halibut
This delicious baked halibut features a crispy crust made with seasoned panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs.
The mild, flaky texture of halibut pairs perfectly with the crunchy topping, creating an elegant yet simple seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 3: Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
Step 5: Brush the top and sides of each halibut fillet with the olive oil mixture.
Step 6: Press the panko mixture firmly onto the top of each fillet, ensuring an even coating.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the crust is golden brown.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes before serving with fresh lemon wedges.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Calcium: 180mg
Final Thoughts
With these eight delectable halibut recipes, you’re now equipped to transform a simple fish into a gourmet experience.
You’ll impress family and friends while enjoying the health benefits of this premium white fish.
Did you know that halibut consumption in home kitchens has risen by 32% since 2020?
It’s clear more home chefs are discovering what culinary professionals have known all along—halibut’s versatility makes it perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
