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Best Lemon Garlic Baked Halibut Recipe with Only 4 Key Ingredients

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Imagine this: you’re standing in your kitchen, staring at a recipe that calls for 15 ingredients. Do you really need all of them to make something delicious? Not always! Sometimes, simplicity is the secret to success. Today, we’re going to show you how to make Lemon Garlic Baked halibut using just four key ingredients. Sound too good to be true? Let’s dive in and prove it’s not

Overview: What Makes This Recipe Special? Lemon Garlic Baked

This Lemon Garlic Baked halibut recipe is special because it proves that great flavor doesn’t have to come from complicated recipes. With only four ingredients—halibut fillets, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic—you can create a dish that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Time Requirement : Prep time is about 10 minutes, and baking takes around 15-20 minutes depending on the thickness of your fish.
  • Difficulty Level : Beginner-friendly! Even if you’ve never cooked fish before, this recipe is easy to follow.

Best of all, halibut is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Plus, the combination of fresh lemon and fragrant garlic gives it a zesty kick that will leave everyone asking for seconds 9.

Essential Ingredients: The Power of Four : Lemon Garlic Baked

Let’s break down why these four ingredients are so important:

  1. Halibut Fillets : Halibut is a mild-flavored white fish that absorbs flavors beautifully. It’s also rich in nutrients like vitamin D and selenium. Look for fresh or frozen fillets at your local grocery store.
  2. Olive Oil : A staple in Mediterranean cooking, olive oil adds richness and helps distribute the marinade evenly over the fish. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor 7.
  3. Lemon Juice : Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness and acidity to balance out the richness of the halibut. Don’t skip this step—it makes all the difference!
  4. Garlic : Minced garlic adds depth and aroma. If you love garlic, feel free to add more than the recipe calls for 8.

Substitutions and Variations:

  • No fresh lemons? Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch, though fresh is always better.
  • Out of garlic? Try garlic powder as a substitute, but use less since it’s concentrated.
  • Want to switch things up? Add herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme for extra flavor 3.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Prepare This Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Lemon Garlic Baked halibut:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together:

  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 2 cloves of minced garlic

This marinade will infuse the halibut with incredible flavor while keeping it moist during cooking.

Step 3: Season the Halibut

Place the halibut fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the marinade generously over each piece, ensuring they’re fully coated. For an extra touch, sprinkle some salt and pepper for seasoning.

Step 4: Bake Until Flaky

Bake the halibut in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets 6.

Tip : To check doneness, gently press the center of the fillet. If it feels firm but still tender, it’s ready!

Assembly: Building Flavor Layers

Once your halibut is baked to perfection, here’s how to serve it like a pro:

  • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or lemon slices for added color and freshness.
  • Serve alongside steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or quinoa for a balanced meal.
  • For presentation tips, arrange the fillets neatly on plates and drizzle any leftover marinade over the top for extra flavor 4.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips: Keeping It Fresh

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. Here are some additional tips:

  • Freeze unbaked halibut portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and avoid drying out the fish 10.

Recipe Variations: Get Creative!

While this recipe is fantastic as-is, there are plenty of ways to mix it up:

  • Add Spices : Include smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or ground coriander for a smoky or spicy twist 2.
  • Switch Up the Fish : Can’t find halibut? Substitute with cod, tilapia, or even salmon for similar results.
  • Go Fancy : Top with grated Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs for a crispy finish 8.

Conclusion: Experiment and Enjoy!

Now that you’ve learned how to make Lemon Garlic Baked halibut with just four ingredients, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of our suggested variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, experiment, and enjoy every bite!

FAQs: Common Questions Answered

Q: Is halibut healthy?

Yes! Halibut is low in fat, high in protein, and loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health 10.

Q: Can I use frozen halibut instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw the frozen fillets overnight in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking 3.

Q: How do I know when the halibut is done?

The halibut is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout 6.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the halibut up to 2 hours ahead of time. Simply refrigerate until ready to bake 1.

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