When it comes to quick and healthy dinners, few dishes can compare to Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables. This recipe is a wonderful way to highlight the delicate flavors of halibut while incorporating a rainbow of fresh vegetables into your meal. The flaky fish pairs beautifully with a medley of vibrant ingredients, and the combination of herbs and spices elevates the dish to something truly special. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress.

Why This Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables Stands Out

This Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables stands out for several reasons. First, it’s packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, and cannellini beans, making it a wholesome option for any meal. Second, the halibut itself is a lean fish that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Finally, the cooking technique of pan-searing gives the halibut a beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside moist and tender. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is simply irresistible!

Ingredient Breakdown

To prepare this delicious Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables, you will need the following ingredients:

46 oz halibut fillets
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup red onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon rosemary, fresh and chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 teaspoon thyme, fresh and chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup chicken broth
1 cup cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
5 oz spinach, fresh, stemmed, and washed
2 tablespoons lemon juice from 2 lemons
½ cup green olives, pitted and halved
Pinch red pepper flakes

Setup & Equipment

Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the following tools ready:

Large skillet: For searing the halibut and sautéing the vegetables.
Spatula: To flip the halibut without breaking it.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables and mincing garlic.
Serving platter: To present your beautiful dish.

Cook Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables Like This

Follow these steps to create your mouthwatering Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by chopping the red onion, mincing the garlic, halving the cherry tomatoes, and rinsing the cannellini beans. Make sure your halibut fillets are thawed if previously frozen. Season both sides of the halibut fillets with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the halibut fillets in the skillet. Sear for about 4-5 minutes on one side, allowing a golden crust to form.

Step 3: Flip the Halibut

Carefully flip the halibut fillets using a spatula. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, spooning the melted butter over the fish. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the halibut is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped red onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then, add the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Add the Rest of the Ingredients

Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, chicken broth, and cannellini beans to the skillet. Stir well, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 4-5 minutes. Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted. Finally, drizzle in the lemon juice and toss in the green olives and red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Return the seared halibut fillets to the skillet, nestling them amongst the vegetables. Let everything heat through for another minute or two. Serve the Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables on a platter, spooning the vegetable mixture over the fish for a beautiful presentation.

Substitutions by Category

If you don’t have certain ingredients on hand or prefer alternatives, consider the following substitutions:

Fish: Use cod or salmon if halibut is unavailable.
Olive oil: Avocado oil can be used in place of olive oil for a different flavor.
Butter: Coconut oil can be substituted for a dairy-free option.
Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach.
Chicken broth: Vegetable broth or water can be used for a lighter flavor.

What Could Go Wrong

While cooking is generally a delightful experience, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the Halibut: Ensure you don’t cook the halibut too long or it may become dry. Watch for it to flake easily.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly; add it just before the other vegetables to prevent this.
Too Much Liquid: If the dish appears too soupy, allow it to simmer a bit longer for evaporation.
Vegetables Overcooked: Aim to sauté vegetables just until tender-crisp for the best texture.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare some components ahead of time:

You can chop the vegetables and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. The halibut can also be seasoned in advance and kept in the fridge. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen halibut for this recipe?

Yes, frozen halibut can be used. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What can I serve with pan-seared halibut?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can use olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.

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Save & Share

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to save and share it with your friends and family! Cooking is always better when shared with loved ones, and this Pan-Seared Halibut with Vegetables is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

The delightful combination of flavors and textures in this dish captures the essence of a healthy and satisfying meal. So fire up that skillet, and let’s get cooking!