Pesto-Baked Halibut
A simple, elegant dish. Flaky halibut fillets are baked with a vibrant basil pesto crust and a hint of lemon and garlic. A perfect weeknight dinner that's ready in under 20 minutes.
For 4 servings
Preheat oven and prepare the fish.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Pat the halibut fillets completely dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides of the fillets with salt and pepper.
TIPPatting the fish dry is crucial for getting a nice texture and helps the pesto adhere better.Make the pesto topping.
In a small bowl, mix together the basil pesto, minced garlic, and the juice from half a lemon. Stir well to combine.
Top the halibut fillets.
- Arrange the seasoned halibut fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops of the fillets lightly with olive oil.
- Divide the pesto mixture evenly among the four fillets, spreading it in a thin layer over the top of each one.
Bake the halibut.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The fish is done when it is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
TIPCooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your fillets. Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking.Garnish and serve immediately.
Remove the halibut from the oven. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For easy cleanup, always use parchment paper or a lightly oiled baking dish.
- 2Don't overbake the halibut. It cooks quickly and can become dry if left in the oven for too long.
- 3If using frozen halibut, make sure it is completely thawed before you begin. Pat it extra dry to remove excess moisture.
- 4You can use other firm white fish like cod or mahi-mahi as a substitute for halibut.
Adapt it for your goals.
Dairy free
Use a dairy-free basil pesto, which is made without Parmesan cheese, to make this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.
budget friendlyBudget friendly
Substitute the halibut with a more affordable white fish like cod, tilapia, or haddock. Adjust baking time as needed based on fillet thickness.
quickQuick
To save on prep time, use store-bought pre-minced garlic and a high-quality jarred pesto.
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 support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
Supports Brain Health
The omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, found in halibut are crucial for brain function and development.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy dish. Halibut is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The pesto provides healthy fats from olive oil. It's naturally low in carbohydrates.