Get ready to transform your home cooking with this mouthwatering Halibut with Charred Tomato Sauce that promises to elevate your seafood game from ordinary to extraordinary! This restaurant-worthy dish combines perfectly seared halibut with a rustic, flavor-packed tomato sauce that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet meal, this recipe is your ticket to culinary excellence.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 halibut fillets
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Remove halibut fillets from refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the halibut fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.
- Place halibut fillets skin-side down (if skin is present) and cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crisp. Carefully flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fish is opaque and flakes easily.
- Remove fish from pan and set aside on a warm plate. Cover loosely with foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing tomatoes to blister and char, creating a rustic sauce.
- Use a wooden spoon to gently press some tomatoes, releasing their juices and creating a chunky sauce.
- Return halibut to the pan, spooning charred tomato sauce over the fish to reheat and combine flavors.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, just before serving.
- Plate the halibut fillets and spoon additional charred tomato sauce around and over the fish.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your halibut sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Dry is Key: Thoroughly pat your fish dry with paper towels to achieve that coveted golden-brown crust.
- Don't Overcrowd: Use a large skillet and cook fish in batches if necessary to prevent steaming instead of searing.
- Watch the Heat: Medium-high heat is crucial for creating a crisp exterior without burning the fish.
- Listen to the Sizzle: A proper sear should create a gentle, consistent sizzling sound.
- Fresh is Best: Use the freshest cherry tomatoes possible for the most vibrant charred sauce.
- Basil Boost: Add fresh basil at the very last moment to preserve its bright, aromatic flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 55mg