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Creamy Baked Halibut

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 halibut fillets (approximately 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Halibut: A mild, white fish that’s tender and easy to bake. It holds up well in a creamy sauce and is a great choice for a sophisticated dinner.
  • Heavy Cream: This creates the rich, velvety sauce that complements the delicate flavor of the halibut. You can substitute with a non-dairy cream alternative if needed.
  • Thyme and Parsley: These fresh herbs bring brightness and depth to the sauce, adding both flavor and visual appeal.
  • Lemon: The citrus zest and juice add a touch of freshness, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, umami flavor to the sauce that helps to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Instructions

Prepare the Fish:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Season the Fish: Place the halibut fillets in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the fish and season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Rub the seasoning evenly over the fish.
  3. Set Aside: Allow the fillets to sit at room temperature for a few minutes while you prepare the creamy sauce.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
  2. Add the Cream and Herbs: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the fresh thyme, parsley, and lemon zest. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly (about 3-4 minutes).
  3. Add the Parmesan and Lemon Juice: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, followed by the lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat.

Bake the Halibut:

  1. Pour the Sauce over the Fish: Spoon the creamy sauce generously over the halibut fillets. Use a spatula to ensure the fish is evenly coated.
  2. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The sauce should be bubbling and lightly golden around the edges.
  3. Garnish and Serve: Once the halibut is done, remove it from the oven. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and a light sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra touch of freshness.

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