This Orange Dijon Grilled Halibut is a tasty fish dish that combines zesty orange and tangy Dijon mustard. It’s light, fresh, and perfect for sunny days!
Grilling halibut adds a lovely smoky flavor, while the marinade gives it a sweet kick. I love serving it with a side of vegetables for a colorful plate that’s just as fun to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Halibut: This fish is wonderful for grilling since it’s firm and doesn’t fall apart easily. If halibut isn’t available, you can swap it for other sturdy fish like cod, swordfish, or even salmon. They’ll all soak up the marinade nicely.
Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh orange juice is best for a vibrant flavor. If oranges are out of season, a good quality bottled juice works, but I prefer to use fresh whenever I can. You can also use lemon or lime juice for a different twist.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon gives a smooth and tangy kick to the marinade. If you want something milder, try yellow mustard instead, or for a spicier flavor, whole grain mustard is also a great alternative.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps with marinating. You can replace it with avocado oil or canola oil if you prefer something with a higher smoke point.
How Do I Grill Halibut Without It Sticking?
Grilling fish, especially delicate ones, can be tricky. Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the fish. This helps create a nice sear.
- Oil the grill grates well with a paper towel dipped in oil. This prevents sticking considerably.
- Let the halibut come to room temperature before grilling. If it’s cold, it can stick more easily.
- Use a fish spatula to gently flip the fillets if they seem to be sticking. If they resist, give them a little more time.
These tips should help you grill your halibut perfectly, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish every time!
Orange Dijon Grilled Halibut
Ingredients:
- 4 (6-ounce) halibut fillets
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This delightful dish requires about 10 minutes for prep and around 10-12 minutes for cooking on the grill. Don’t forget to give it some marinating time in the fridge—20 to 30 minutes. Overall, plan for about 50 minutes from start to finish, with most of that being the halibut soaking up those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Whisk the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a small bowl. In it, whisk together the fresh orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s nice and smooth. This combination gives your halibut a beautiful blend of sweet and tangy flavors!
2. Marinate the Halibut:
Place your halibut fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour your prepared marinade over the fish, ensuring that each piece is fully coated. Cover the dish or seal the bag tight and pop it in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes. This marinating process helps the fish absorb all that yummy flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the halibut is marinating, it’s time to preheat your grill! Set it to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates using a paper towel or a grill brush. This step is essential to make sure your fish doesn’t stick!
4. Grill the Halibut:
After marinating, take the halibut out and let any excess marinade drip off. Place the fillets gently on the preheated grill. Grill each side for about 4-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you like, baste the fillets with any leftover marinade while they cook to amp up the flavor! Just make sure the marinade that touches the raw fish is cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the halibut is perfectly grilled, take it off the grill and transfer it to a serving plate. Spoon over any leftover sauce from the marinade dish and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with your favorite grilled vegetables or any side dish of your choice for a complete meal!
This Orange Dijon Grilled Halibut is not just light and flavorful but also visually stunning with vibrant colors. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use a Different Type of Fish?
Absolutely! While halibut is perfect for grilling due to its firm texture, you can substitute it with other fish like cod, swordfish, or salmon. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different fish may require slight adjustments.
How Long Should I Marinate the Fish?
For the best flavor, marinate your halibut for 20 to 30 minutes. If you marinate it for too long, the acid in the orange juice can start to break down the fish too much, resulting in a mushy texture.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure everything is well mixed.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With Grilled Halibut?
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a light rice pilaf. For a low-carb option, consider serving it with sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles!