There’s something truly special about a perfectly cooked piece of halibut, and when you add a crunchy pistachio crust, it takes the dish to a whole new level.
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of halibut with the rich nuttiness of pistachios, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress.
Ingredient List
For the Fish
- 4 halibut fillets (about 170 grams each)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping
- 1 cup pistachios, shelled and finely chopped (or use walnuts if needed)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for extra flavor)
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Don’t worry if you can’t find all the exact ingredients. This recipe is flexible. Your kitchen will smell amazing once you start cooking! Keep it simple and enjoy the process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures the pistachio crust gets nice and crunchy.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240g) of Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of honey. This tangy sauce complements the halibut beautifully.
- Crust the fish:
- Pulse 1 cup (150g) of shelled pistachios in a food processor until finely chopped.
- Combine the chopped pistachios with 1 cup (100g) of breadcrumbs in a bowl.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. This topping brings loads of flavor to your halibut.
- Prepare the halibut fillets:
- Pat 4 fillets (about 170g each) dry. This helps the crust adhere better.
- Brush each fillet with olive oil.
- Coat the fillets:
- Press the pistachio mixture firmly onto each fillet. You want that crust to stick!
- Roast the fillets:
- Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 12-15 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Serve:
- Drizzle the yogurt sauce over the halibut just before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and nutrient-packed meal!
Pro Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to two days. Just reheat gently to keep the crust crunchy.
Recipe Notes & Variations
-
For the Sauce:
- Greek yogurt (try plain yogurt if you’re out)
- Lemon juice (sub in apple cider vinegar for a twist)
- Honey (use maple syrup for a vegan option)
-
For the Topping:
- Pistachios (sub almonds or walnuts if you’re nut-free)
- Breadcrumbs (swap with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version)
Tips
- Time-Saving Hack: Use pre-chopped pistachios to save a few minutes.
- Flavor Balance: Adding a pinch of garlic powder to the crust enhances the overall taste.
- Kid-Friendly Adjustments: Omit any spices like chili flakes for milder palates.
Make-Ahead
- Freezing: Prepare the halibut up to the coating step. Freeze unbaked fillets.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before roasting for an easy weeknight dinner.
Your kitchen will smell amazing as this bakes! Enjoy the crunchy texture combined with tender fish.
Serving Suggestions
Don’t stress – we’re keeping this easy! Here are some simple serving ideas that pair perfectly with my Pistachio-Crusted Halibut.
Side Dishes
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers with olive oil and salt. Roast alongside the halibut for about 20 minutes.
- Quinoa or Rice: Cook quinoa or jasmine rice (about 1 cup dry) in vegetable broth for added flavor. It balances the dish well.
- Simple Salad: Mix fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber with a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.
Sauces & Extras
- Sauce: Drizzle more of the Greek yogurt sauce over your halibut. It’s tangy and light!
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra zesty kick.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep Ahead: Make the pistachio crust a day in advance and store it in the fridge. It saves time!
- Freeze Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, wrap them tightly. They reheat nicely in the oven.
Remember, your kitchen will smell amazing! Enjoy your meal with friends or family for a delightful experience.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition for my Pistachio-Crusted Halibut.
This lovely dish balances flavor and health, making it perfect for my busy family.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Key Nutritional Benefits:
- Lean Protein: Halibut is great for muscle growth and repair.
- Healthy Fats: Pistachios provide omega-3 fatty acids.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This meal is rich in B vitamins and potassium.
Potential Concerns:
- Sodium Levels: Use low-sodium breadcrumbs to reduce salt.
- Calorie Density: Serve with lots of greens to keep it light.
Conclusion
I can’t wait for you to try this Pistachio-Crusted Halibut. It’s such a delightful dish that brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
The crunchy pistachio crust really elevates the halibut making it a standout meal for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends this recipe is sure to impress.
Plus it’s flexible enough to adapt to your tastes or dietary needs.
So get in the kitchen and enjoy the wonderful aromas while you create something truly special. Happy cooking!