Baked Halibut with Fennel and Tomatoes
Tender, flaky halibut fillets baked on a bed of sweet fennel and juicy cherry tomatoes. A light, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
Preheat oven and prepare vegetables.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large baking dish, combine the sliced fennel, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced garlic.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, add the lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
TIPUsing a large enough dish ensures the vegetables roast instead of steam, developing better flavor.Roast the vegetables.
Arrange the thyme sprigs among the vegetables. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for 10-12 minutes, until the fennel begins to soften.
Prepare the halibut fillets.
While the vegetables are roasting, pat the halibut fillets completely dry with a paper towel. Rub them with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper.
TIPPatting the fish dry helps it cook evenly and prevents it from becoming watery.Bake the halibut with the vegetables.
- Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven.
- Nestle the seasoned halibut fillets among the partially cooked vegetables.
- Squeeze the fresh lemon juice over the fish and vegetables.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes.
TIPThe fish is done when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. An instant-read thermometer should register 145°F (63°C).Garnish and serve immediately.
Remove the dish from the oven. Discard the thyme sprigs. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot, spooning the vegetables and pan juices over each fillet.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't overcook the halibut, as it can become dry. Check for doneness at the 10-minute mark.
- 2For extra flavor, you can add a splash of dry white wine to the vegetables before the initial roast.
- 3If you don't have fresh thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme will work well.
- 4This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Low carb
This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates. For a complete low-carb meal, serve it with cauliflower rice or a side of steamed green beans.
quickQuick
To save time, look for pre-sliced fennel in your grocery store's produce section.
healthyHealthy
For a different flavor profile, add a handful of Kalamata olives along with the tomatoes for an extra dose of healthy fats.
gluten freeGluten free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure all your seasonings are certified gluten-free if you have a high sensitivity.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Halibut provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you full.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
This fish is a great source of omega-3s, which are known to reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular and cognitive health.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Fennel and tomatoes offer dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants, which help support the immune system and overall wellness.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, baked halibut is very healthy. It's an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health. Baking with vegetables and olive oil makes it a nutritious, well-rounded meal.