Pan-Fried Halibut

Pan-Fried Halibut is a simple and delicious way to prepare this firm white fish. The method ensures a golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist and flaky. You only need a few basic ingredients to make a restaurant quality meal at home. This recipe is perfect for a quick weekday dinner or a special weekend treat.
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.8 (8 ratings)
Share the recipe here
Photo of the finished dish for the recipe Pan-Fried Halibut

Benefits of making pan-fried halibut

This method for pan-fried halibut takes very little time and effort. The high heat of the pan creates a lovely texture that contrasts with the soft meat of the fish. Halibut has a mild flavour that pairs well with simple seasonings like lemon and butter. It is a healthy choice that provides plenty of protein for a balanced meal.

How to get pan-fried halibut ready

Step 1
Prepare the fish: Pat the fillets dry using kitchen paper to ensure the skin gets crispy. Season both sides with salt and pepper just before cooking.
Step 2
Heat the pan: Place a frying pan over medium high heat and add the olive oil. Wait until the oil is shimmering before placing the fish in the pan.
Step 3
Fry the halibut: Lay the fillets in the hot oil and cook for about four minutes without moving them. Flip the fish carefully once the bottom is golden brown.
Step 4
Baste and serve: Add the butter to the pan and let it melt around the fish. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and spoon the melted butter over the fillets for one minute then serve.

The best tips for pan-fried halibut

Always make sure your pan is properly heated before adding the fish. This prevents the pan-fried halibut from sticking and helps create a good crust. If the fillets are very thick you may need to cook them for an extra minute on each side.

Do not overcrowd the pan because this will lower the temperature and steam the fish instead of frying it. Using a mix of oil and butter gives you the best flavour and prevents the butter from burning. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives added at the very end bring a bright finish to the dish.

You might also enjoy minute steak, pasta with lamb or pasta with chanterelles.

Ingredients

servings
Adjust quantity
  • 2 halibut fillets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 20 grams butter
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 grams salt
  • 1 gram black pepper
  • 5 grams fresh parsley

Cooking time

Kitchen tools

Nutrition information

NUTRITIONper serving
  • Energy:1243 kJ / 297 kcal
  • Fat:18.5 g
  • - of which saturates:5.2 g
  • Carbohydrates:0.8 g
  • - of which sugars:0.2 g
  • Protein:31.5 g
  • Fibre:0.3 g
  • Salt:1 g

People also ask

Pan-Fried Halibut usually takes about 10 minutes to make. The time can vary slightly with the quantity and method. Check the texture towards the end.
Follow the stated timings and temperatures. Stir or turn it only when the method calls for it.
Do not leave it over the heat for too long. Check the texture near the end and adjust the time if needed.
What do you think of this recipe?
4.8 / 5 - (8 ratings)