Baked Lemon Herb Halibut with Quinoa Pilaf

Introduction

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Baked Lemon Herb Halibut with Quinoa Pilaf, a healthy and mouthwatering dish that combines the mild and flaky goodness of halibut with a zesty lemon herb marinade. Paired with a nutty and nutritious quinoa pilaf, this recipe is perfect for a light and wholesome meal that is both satisfying and refreshing.

The Versatility of Halibut

Halibut is a versatile fish known for its firm texture and delicate taste. Here's why halibut is a fantastic choice for this recipe:

Mild Flavor:

Halibut's mild flavor allows it to easily absorb the delightful taste of the lemon herb marinade.

Healthy and Nutritious:

Halibut is rich in protein, low in fat, and packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Easy to Cook:

Halibut cooks quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients for Baked Lemon Herb Halibut

Before we start cooking, let's gather all the ingredients needed to create this delectable Baked Lemon Herb Halibut with Quinoa Pilaf:

For the Lemon Herb Marinade:

• 2 halibut fillets
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Quinoa Pilaf:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup diced carrots
• 1/4 cup peas
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Now, let's proceed with the step-by-step process of creating this delightful Baked Lemon Herb Halibut with Quinoa Pilaf:

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Herb Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the lemon herb marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Halibut

Place the halibut fillets in a shallow dish and pour the lemon herb marinade over them, ensuring the fillets are fully coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse the fish.

Step 3: Cook the Quinoa

In a saucepan, rinse the quinoa under cold water and drain. Add vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the quinoa simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy and tender.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, bell peppers, carrots, and peas. Sauté the vegetables until they are tender and lightly browned. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Bake the Halibut

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated halibut fillets on a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake the halibut in the preheated oven for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and mix in the sautéed vegetables to create the quinoa pilaf. Serve the baked lemon herb halibut over a bed of quinoa pilaf, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Baked Lemon Herb Halibut with Quinoa Pilaf is a wholesome and flavorful dish that celebrates the delicate taste of halibut and the zesty notes of lemon and herbs. The nutty quinoa pilaf perfectly complements the tender fish, making this recipe a delightful choice for a nutritious and delicious meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the satisfaction of a well-balanced dish that is easy to prepare and sure to impress!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen halibut fillets for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen halibut fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and baking.

2. Can I substitute quinoa with rice?

Yes, you can replace quinoa with rice to make a delicious rice pilaf instead.

3. Can I add other herbs to the marinade?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs like basil, thyme, or dill to customize the marinade to your taste.

4. Can I use other vegetables for the quinoa pilaf?

Yes, you can use any vegetables of your choice, such as broccoli, corn, or zucchini, to create a colorful and nutritious quinoa pilaf.

5. How long does the halibut need to marinate?

Marinate the halibut for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to infuse the fish. For even more intense flavor, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.