Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Butter
Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Butter is a delightful dish that brings out the best of summer flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, it's both simple to prepare and impressive to serve.
Share
Ingredients for Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Butter
Swordfish steaks are a hearty, meaty fish that hold up well on the grill. Their mild flavor pairs perfectly with our zesty lemon butter sauce. Unsalted butter provides a rich base for the sauce without adding unnecessary salt. The large lemon is both juiced and zested, giving the sauce a bright, tangy note that complements the fish. Garlic adds a layer of depth and a bit of warmth to the sauce. A touch of olive oil helps to prevent the fish from sticking to the grill and adds a hint of richness. We season with salt and pepper to taste, which enhances the natural flavors of the fish. Finally, fresh parsley is used for garnishing, adding a fresh, herbal note that ties the dish together.
Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Butter Tips & Tricks
- Ensure your grill is hot before placing the fish on it to prevent sticking.
- If you don’t have a grill, a stovetop grill pan works just as well.
- Use a fish spatula to turn the steaks gently without breaking them.
- Allow the fish to rest for a few minutes after grilling for juices to redistribute.
Serving Ideas for Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Butter
Pair this dish with a light, crisp salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. A side of quinoa or couscous can soak up the delicious lemon butter sauce, making every bite delightful. For a refreshing beverage accompaniment, try a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a citrus-infused sparkling water.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen swordfish?
- Yes, just make sure it's fully thawed and patted dry before grilling.
- What if I don't have fresh parsley?
- Dried parsley can work in a pinch, but use it sparingly as it's more concentrated.
- How do I know when the fish is done?
- The fish should be opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Butter Recipe Walkthrough
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is key to achieving those lovely grill marks and ensuring the fish cooks evenly. While the grill is heating up, prepare your lemon butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat — we don't want it to brown, just melt. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and minced garlic. Keep this warm but not boiling; we want the flavors to meld together nicely.
Next, brush your swordfish steaks with olive oil. This helps to prevent sticking and adds a nice flavor. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Place the steaks on the hot grill and let them cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn opaque and flake easily with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the swordfish from the grill and place them on a serving dish. Drizzle the warm lemon butter sauce over each steak, ensuring they’re well coated. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Why This Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Butter Works
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Fresh lemon and garlic flavors that enhance the swordfish without overpowering it.
- The dish is both healthy and satisfying, offering a perfect balance of protein and flavor.
- Simple ingredients that pack a flavor punch.
Ingredients
- 2 swordfish steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- 2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and minced garlic. Keep warm.
- 3. Brush each swordfish steak with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- 4. Place the swordfish on the grill, cooking for about 4-5 minutes per side, until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- 5. Remove swordfish from the grill and drizzle the lemon butter sauce over each steak.
- 6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.