Grilling halibut is a fantastic way to enjoy this mild, flaky, and buttery fish with a smoky char that elevates its natural flavors. But halibut can be a bit tricky to grill because it’s lean and prone to drying out or sticking to the grill. Don’t worry – with the right preparation and technique, you can master grilling halibut like a pro. Here’s your friendly, step-by-step guide to cooking halibut on the grill that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any summer cookout.
What Makes Halibut Great for Grilling?
Halibut is a firm, white fish with a slightly sweet flavor and a dense texture that holds up well on the grill. It’s lean and low in fat, which means it cooks quickly and benefits from careful handling to avoid drying out. When grilled right, halibut develops a beautiful golden crust while staying moist and tender inside.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Halibut fillets or steaks (about 1-inch thick is ideal)
– Olive oil or another high-heat cooking oil
– Fresh lemon juice
– Garlic (powdered or fresh minced)
– Salt and black pepper
– Optional: fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, and spices like cayenne or lemon pepper for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Halibut
1. Prepare Your Grill
Start by cleaning your grill grates thoroughly with a wire brush to remove any residue. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). Then, lightly oil the grates using a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs. This prevents the fish from sticking and helps create those perfect grill marks.
2. Season the Halibut
Pat your halibut fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture – this helps the seasoning stick and promotes even cooking. Brush the fillets with olive oil and fresh lemon juice to add flavor and keep the fish moist. Then, season generously with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder or minced garlic. You can also add herbs like thyme or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat and color.
3. Optional: Use a Mayonnaise Veil for Extra Moisture
Because halibut is lean and can stick easily, some chefs recommend brushing a thin layer of mayonnaise on both sides of the fillets before grilling. This acts as a protective barrier, keeping the fish moist and preventing it from sticking to the grill grates.
4. Grill the Halibut
Place the halibut fillets skin-side down (if they have skin) on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes without moving them. After that, flip the fillets carefully using a spatula and tongs to avoid breaking the fish. Grill for another 3-4 minutes on the other side until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach about 135°F to 145°F – lower temperatures (around 135°F) keep the fish more tender and juicy, while 145°F is fully cooked but can be drier.
5. Let It Rest
Once off the grill, let the halibut rest on a warm plate for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist fillet.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Halibut
– Don’t overcook: Halibut cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.
– Use thick fillets: About 1-inch thick is best to prevent the fish from falling apart.
– Oil the grill well: Prevents sticking and helps with grill marks.
– Season simply: Halibut’s mild flavor shines with just salt, pepper, lemon, and garlic.
– Try marinades: A quick marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs adds brightness.
– Use a fish basket or foil if worried about sticking: This can help keep the fish intact.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Garlic Thyme Butter: Melt butter with minced garlic and fresh thyme, then brush over the fish before grilling for a rich, aromatic taste.
– Honey Lemon Glaze: Mix honey and lemon juice for a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
– Spicy Cajun or Jerk Seasoning: For a kick, sprinkle your halibut with Cajun or jerk spices before grilling.
– Herb Marinade: Combine olive oil, lemon zest, garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes for a flavorful marinade that complements halibut’s sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled halibut pairs wonderfully with fresh lemon wedges, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, and simple sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a crisp salad. For a light and healthy meal, serve it with quinoa and steamed greens. If you want to impress guests, top the halibut with a fresh salsa or a drizzle of garlic butter sauce.
Grilling halibut is easier than you think when you follow these simple steps. With its delicate flavor and flaky texture, grilled halibut makes a perfect centerpiece for your next barbecue or weeknight dinner. Just remember to keep it moist, avoid overcooking, and enjoy the fresh, bright flavors that only grilling can bring out. Happy grilling!