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Crispy Pan-Roasted Halibut Recipe with Easy Brown Butter Lemon Caper Sauce

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A quick and easy pan-roasted halibut with a crispy crust, served with a flavorful brown butter lemon caper sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Halibut fillets, about 6 ounces (170 grams) each, skin-on if possible
  • Salt and pepper, to season
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from half a lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Pat the halibut dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. (5 minutes)
  2. Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Heat until shimmering but not smoking. (2-3 minutes)
  3. Place the fillets skin-side down in the pan. Press lightly with a spatula to keep flat. Cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until edges turn opaque and skin is golden and crisp.
  4. Flip the fillets carefully and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until opaque throughout and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from pan and rest on a paper towel-lined plate. (5-6 minutes)
  5. While the fish cooks, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently as it foams and turns golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Stir in minced garlic and capers, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley if using. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Spoon the warm sauce generously over the rested halibut fillets and serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the fish dry thoroughly to ensure a crispy crust. Use medium-high heat but watch the butter carefully to avoid burning. Let the fish rest after cooking to keep it moist. The sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: halibut, pan-roasted fish, brown butter sauce, lemon caper sauce, crispy fish, quick seafood recipe, healthy fish recipe

Find it online: https://cooksyla.com/crispy-pan-roasted-halibut-recipe-with-easy-brown-butter-lemon-caper-sauce/