Everyone has cravings and I'm no different! Now that I live in the middle of High Desert country (land locked) my cravings for FRESH seafood are more intense. Even growing up near the ocean I don't remember having halibut very often. I had my share of tuna, swordfish and sole which, I guess, are warm water fish. We were given a gift of some halibut fillets recently and I couldn't wait to try this recipe.
It would work just as well with cod, snapper or sole, too. Any mild flavored fish will love the blanket of cheesy goodness and you will also!
Cheesy Halibut
Serves 2
2 halibut fillets
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 Tbsp butter, softened
2 Tbsp mayonnaise
1 Tbsp lemon juice
2-3 Tbsp green onions, chopped
a sprinkle of salt (optional)
a dash of hot sauce (optional, but gives it some heat)
Turn the broiler to high. Spray or butter a baking dish. Place the halibut in baking dish. In a bowl add the remaining ingredients from cheese to hot sauce. Mix well and set aside.
Broil the fish for about 8-10 minutes or until just done and flakes using a fork. Spread the cheese mixture on top and continue to broil for another 1-2 minutes or until it's bubbly. Serve on top of rice or orzo. Delicious!!
I really miss the days gone by when I lived on the ocean. I love the beach, eating fresh fish (there is a difference) and that salt air that allows me to breathe better and use less lotion. But, I live in the high desert, for now! The last time I had halibut was when my son flew it home from Vancouver, BC, Canada. Delicious!
I knew it wouldn't come close to being that fresh, but I purchased some halibut for the hell of it! I had a craving I had to oblige. The weather outside wasn't cooperating for a barbecue and I don't like to cook fish on the stove top...the smell lingers for hours, if not, days. On my recent "eating plan" I can have a few handfuls of nuts. Almond crusted halibut coming up! Keep in mind that this is a lower calorie meal so ...no butter.
Almond Crusted Baked Halibut
For a serving for two I bought about a 5 inch piece. I have no measurements. Use enough chopped almonds or any other kind of nut to cover the fish surface.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Wash and pat dry the halibut. Season the fish with salt and pepper. I also used paprika but with no noticeable taste. Spray a baking dish or use a bit of olive oil. Put the fish in, skin side down. Apply the coarsely chopped almonds and drizzle with a bit of olive oil. Butter can be used if you're more fortunate to be svelte. Cook until done, usually 15 minutes, depending on the thickness.
Serve with tartar sauce or on top of veggies and brown rice like I did.
