Halibut is one of the most popular fish dishes out there, and for a good reason! Its mild flavor means that it can be cooked in a variety of ways, from grilling, baking, and pan-seared to steaming, and it pairs well with a variety of sides.
What to serve with Halibut To make your next halibut dinner extra tasty.
Here are some of my favored side dishes that pair perfectly with halibut. These are easy to prepare, and there is no need for extra time.
If you are in A Little hurry and want to know What to serve with Halibut, then try any of these- Vegetables, Grains, Salad, Rice or Quinoa, Sautéed green beans, Mashed Potatoes, Couscous, Quinoa, Salad With Orange Vinaigrette, Ginger Garlic Boy Choy, Spinach Salad, Rice Pilaf, Green Beans Almondine, Braised Fingerling Potatoes with Garlic, Roasted peppers and onions, Garlic Bread, Indian Lemon Rice, Orzo Salad, Couscous Salad, Fondant potatoes, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Parmesan roasted artichokes, Cucumber Salad, Quinoa Pilaf, Lemon Couscous, Honey-glazed carrots, Cilantro Lime Slaw, Sautéed balsamic mushrooms, and Sauteed Mushrooms and Spinach with Spicy Garlic Sauce.
What is so special about halibut? What does Halibut Taste Like?
Halibut is a popular fish that is both tasty and nutritious. It is prized for its distinctive mild flavor, which makes it an ideal vessel for a variety of spices and sauces.
It has a delicate texture and subtle sweetness that make it an excellent choice for many dishes. Halibut has firm flesh with large, moist flakes and is generally milder and less “fishy” than other white fish, like cod or flounder.
It can be baked, broiled, grilled, poached, sautéed, or steamed without losing its delicate flavor.
Halibut pairs well with creamy sauces or butter-based preparations, veggies, grains, and more, as the flavors don’t overpower the fish’s delicate taste.
It’s also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and is high in protein.
My Top 10 Halibut Dishes you should Try
1. Grilled halibut with lemon and herbs – this simple dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner; the fish is cooked to perfection and seasoned with your favorite herbs and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
2. Halibut puttanesca – an Italian classic, halibut puttanesca combines the flavors of olives, capers, garlic, tomatoes, and oregano for a rich and flavorful meal that’s sure to please.
3. Fish tacos with halibut – this Mexican-inspired dish is healthy and delicious; just add some diced tomatoes, cilantro, and lime juice to grilled or fried halibut fillets for an easy dinner option.
4. Halibut en papillote – bake halibut fillets on parchment paper and top with a mix of vegetables, herbs, and butter for an easy and flavorful meal.
5. Pan-fried halibut – this simple yet delicious dish is perfect for busy weeknights; just fry up some halibut fillets in some olive oil or butter until golden brown and serve with rice or potatoes.
6. Grilled teriyaki halibut – marinate your halibut steaks in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, mirin, and garlic, then grill to perfection for a mouthwatering dinner option.
7. Baked Parmesan-crusted halibut – the combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious crust; just bake your halibut fillets in the oven for a quick and easy meal.
8. Halibut chowder – this hearty soup is perfect for cold winter days; it’s loaded with potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery, then topped with chunks of halibut for an extra boost of flavor.
9. Halibut ceviche – this Mexican dish is light and refreshing; marinate cubed halibut in lemon juice, then mix in diced tomatoes, onion, avocado, and cilantro to create a unique yet tasty appetizer or side dish.
10. Grilled ginger-lime halibut – add some Asian flair to your dinner by marinating halibut in a mixture of ginger, garlic, lime juice, and soy sauce; then grill the fish until cooked through for a delicious dinner option.
Top 27 Best Side Dishes to Serve with Halibut For a Busy Weekend to Relax Holidays
1. Roasted Vegetables
Halibut pairs well with a variety of fresh vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels Sprouts, bell peppers, green beans, carrots, squash, sweet potato, and spinach.
Roasting brings out all of the natural sweetness in vegetables and adds a hint of smokiness that complements the fish perfectly. So, try roasting them in the oven with olive oil and garlic, Or give them a burst of flavor by tossing them in a flavorful marinade before grilling them.
You can even mix up some steamed veggies with a flavorful sauce or pesto to make a delicious side dish.
2. Grains And Halibut
If you want something more filling, then grains are the way to go. Rice is always an easy option – white rice pairs well with almost any type of fish.
For something more adventurous, try quinoa, farro, or barley – these will all add texture and heartiness to your meal without feeling heavy.
Also, opt for bulgur wheat which has a nutty flavor and pairs especially well with grilled halibut.
3. Start With a Fresh Salad
Salad is always an easy and blind-refreshing option for any fish dish, so halibut is no exception, without fail.
Toss together any combination of greens (think spinach, arugula, or romaine lettuce) along with tomatoes, cucumber slices, and whatever other veggies you have handy (roasted peppers add great color).
You can do something simple like mixing tomatoes and cucumbers or get creative by adding roasted squash or beets for color and sweetness. Top off your salad with some nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you want more crunch!
And don’t forget about dressing – vinaigrette is always a classic choice but feels free to get creative here too! A honey mustard or balsamic vinaigrette would pair nicely with your halibut dish.
4. Roasted artichokes with Parmesan Cheese
Roasting the artichokes brings out their natural sweetness, while Parmesan cheese adds saltiness and a savory depth of flavor.
Even if your guests are reluctant to try artichokes, this simple recipe is sure to convince them! The roasting process allows for the creamy texture of artichoke hearts to combine with buttery Parmesan chips for a one-of-a-kind taste experience.
You can use Vegan alternatives to Parmesan cheese. This quick side dish is certain to be a hit with both seafood lovers and those who may not regularly dine on fish.
5. Rice
A great way to make your halibut into an entrée is by pairing it with either rice. Rice provides the perfect complement to the halibut’s delicate flavor and won’t overpower the dish.
You can go with a simple white or brown rice or mix things up by trying something like jasmine rice or wild rice.
6. Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes go perfectly with highly flavored fish like halibut. Crispy smashed potatoes are irresistibly crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
When making mashed potatoes for your halibut dinner, opt for Yukon Golds or Red Bliss potatoes for the most flavorful results.
Add some cream cheese or sour cream and seasoning if you want an extra silky texture. Pro tip: add some freshly grated parmesan cheese on top of the potatoes just before serving for an added kick of flavor!
7. Orange Vinaigrette Salad
Nothing beats a delicious halibut entree accompanied by Salad With Orange Vinaigrette. This zesty and zingy side dish heightens the flavor of any main course with its tangy and invigorating sauce.
The sweetness of the oranges complements the richness of the halibut, providing a scrumptious contrast that will likely be a hit with any seafood-loving guest.
In addition to flavor, this colorful salad will ensure that every meal looks as wonderful as it tastes–– perfect for impressing your next dinner crowd!
For optimal deliciousness, make sure to dress each individual serving with vinaigrette just before plating.
8. Couscous Salad
A Middle Eastern staple made from semolina flour, couscous has a light yet complex flavor that pairs well with halibut’s mild taste. Couscous salad is a colorful and healthy way to round out your halibut dinner.
Start by cooking couscous according to package instructions before stirring in diced cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, capers, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Season with salt and pepper before drizzling over some olive oil just before serving. Plus, it cooks quickly and requires minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!
9. Spinach Salad
Fresh spinach is packed full of vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for pairing with healthy seafood dishes like halibut. Add some crunchy nuts or crumbled cheese for even more texture and flavor!
10. Cilantro Lime Slaw
Halibut is the perfect entrée for a gathering of friends or family, and it’s even better served with an easy but flavorful side dish like Cilantro Lime Slaw.
Fresh cilantro adds color and offers a distinctive, citrusy aroma. The hint of lime adds a brightness that livens up the heavy flavors of the fish. The light, zesty flavors of the slaw are a great contrast to the rich taste of the fish.
With only four ingredients, this light slaw takes only minutes to throw together. Alternately, you can julienne any combination of red cabbage or carrots to give texture to this already simple yet tasty side dish.
No matter what combination you choose, your guests will surely love it – you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears from the plate!
11. Steamed Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is an easy and flavorful medley of diced vegetables cooked in broth until tender.
It’s easy to prepare and provides an interesting contrast in both texture and flavor when served alongside lightly seasoned halibut fillets.
Start by sautéing some onions and garlic in butter before adding your favorite type of rice (such as basmati). Once the rice has softened, stir in some broth or stock and let it simmer until all of the liquid has been absorbed. Finish off your pilaf with some chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.
12. Braised Fingerling Potatoes with Some Garlic
Braised Fingerling Potatoes with Garlic is an ideal choice for my family. This classic side combines the creamy texture of tender fingerling potatoes braised with white wine, garlic, and herbs before being finished off in the oven with a golden buttery crunch.
Thanks to its simple but flavorful ingredients, this side helps bring out the natural taste of halibut while adding inviting aromas and a homey feel to any meal.
With Braised Fingerling Potatoes with Garlic on your plate, you will have all you need for a truly delicious springtime dinner.
13. Green Beans Almondine
A classic French dish traditionally made with green beans cooked in butter until crispy, then topped off with crunchy slices of almonds—green beans almondine provides an earthy crunch that complements the delicate flavors of fresh fish beautifully!
14. Sautéed green beans
Halibut pairs well with light side dishes that provide a punch of color, like Sautéed green beans.
Sauteed Green Beans enliven the pallet with their crunchy texture and sharp taste. To get the most out of this side dish, blanch them first to take away some of their bites and give them a bit more tenderness to complement the halibut.
Serve this match made in heaven combination with a lightly dressed salad, and you have an unforgettable seafood meal!
15. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread adds a nice crunchy element to any meal, but it really shines when paired with fish like halibut due to its strong garlic flavor, which helps cut through the richness of the fish without overpowering it.
16. Fried Potatoes
Fried potatoes make an excellent side dish when served alongside pan-seared halibut fillets or grilled steaks—just be sure not to fry them too long, or they will become soggy!
17. Sautéed Balsamic Mushrooms
A perfect side to accompany our favorite fishy dish is Sautéed balsamic mushrooms. With the subtle sweetness from the balsamic vinegar and butter, these sautéed gems bring out the flavor of the halibut in a delightful way.
You can’t imagine how this makes for a wonderful accompaniment and also a great nutritious option for your balanced meal.
Cooking up the mushrooms takes only minutes, allowing you to focus on getting that perfectly seared halibut.
18. Ginger Garlic Boy Choy
Ginger Garlic Bok Choy is sure to be a hit when served alongside halibut for a special meal. The rich, buttery flavor of the halibut is perfectly blended with the delicious combination of garlic, ginger, and Bok Choy.
A light drizzle of olive oil before cooking will help ensure that the ingredients all roast evenly in the oven or on the grill, creating an almost-caramelized, crispy texture.
Everyone at your table will love this dynamic yet easy side dish – it’s certain to be one of your new favorites!
19. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
To make them, preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and toss 1 lb of trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and ½ teaspoon of salt.
Spread it on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes, stirring once halfway through roasting time.
20. Orzo Salad
One popular way to serve halibut is to pair it with a light, flavorful side dish like Orzo Salad. The simple but tasty combination of orzo pasta, tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, cucumber, onion, and a Greek-style vinaigrette makes this salad ideal for balancing out the more robust taste of the fish.
The salad provides a crunchy texture alongside flaky halibut, and the bright colors add a beautiful contrast to the plate that will impress guests. Whipping up an Orzo Salad couldn’t be easier, and it’s sure to become a favorite side dish for serving with halibut.
21. Refreshing Cucumber Salad
Cucumber Salad goes well with Halibut or other types of seafood dishes.
To make it, whisk together 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl; set aside while preparing cucumbers.
Slice 2 cucumbers into thin rounds (or use mandoline) and add to the bowl along with 8 ounces of cubed feta cheese; toss gently to combine everything together before serving cold or at room temperature alongside your cooked halibut fillet(s).
22. Sauteed Spinach-Mushrooms spread with Spicy Garlic Sauce
Get ready for a delicious dinner with this easy-to-make side dish. Sauteed Mushrooms and Spinach with Spicy Garlic Sauce.
Sautéed mushrooms lend their signature earthy flavor, while spinach adds a fresh, savory note. Garlic sauce gives the dish an extra zing and brings out all the flavors even further.
The combination of vegetables and the savory garlic sauce will make your taste buds glad you chose this to go with your halibut dinner. Don’t forget to add a bit of spice for some added heat! You and your family will love it.
23. Indian Lemon Rice
Indian Lemon Rice is an ideal side dish to pair with halibut! Spicy and fragrant, this rice dish will elevate the savory flavor of halibut.
While traditionally made with white Basmati rice, you can also prepare this recipe with brown Basmati for a more nutritious and heartier meal.
The simple ingredients like fresh lemon juice and herbs, including turmeric, cumin, mustard seeds, and coriander, offer an irresistible aroma and flavor that any seafood lover will appreciate.
Serve Indian Lemon Rice to your guests next time you prepare halibut – it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
24. Lemon Couscous
Lemon Couscous is a light yet hearty dish made with pearl couscous, fresh parsley and garlic, feta cheese, lemon juice, and more.
While it does contain cheese, the other ingredients give this side just the right amount of zesty flavor to perfectly complement your halibut.
Served warm or cold, you’ll be impressed with how easy it is to make and enjoy this delicious side dish!
25. Honey-glazed Carrots
Serving honey-glazed carrots alongside halibut creates a delectable and nutritious meal. Starting with fresh, organic carrots adds a sweetness to the dish that is hard to find elsewhere.
To make them even more flavorfully robust, glaze the cleaned and cut carrots with honey and fresh-squeezed citrus juice.
Roast them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 45 minutes and serve hot for maximum deliciousness. Adding rosemary or other herbs for added zing creates an unforgettable side dish that perfectly complements halibut.
Each bite is sweet, tangy, and herbaceous, making it the perfect foil for milder-tasting fish dishes like halibut.
26. Fondant potatoes
Worried about introducing your guests to a new dish? Don’t be! Fondant potatoes are incredibly flavorful, with caramelized butter and natural juices from the pan roasting that brings out their sweet flavor.
Beyond flavor, this side dish adds texture. Crispy from the outside and pillowy from the inside, it truly complements all main courses.
Simple to prepare and using high-quality potato varieties such as Yukon Golds or Russet potatoes will yield a perfectly cooked side item.
Serve alongside halibut for a complementary set meal for your next dinner party or family gathering!
27. Roasted peppers and onions
Roasted peppers and onions are a simple but flavorful option that won’t overpower the light taste of halibut.
The sweetness of the peppers combined with the savory flavor of the onions helps to highlight the delicate flavors of halibut in every bite.
Roasting these vegetables also brings out their natural flavor that pairs perfectly with fish, making them an ideal addition to any dinner plate featuring a tasty piece of halibut.
What is the best way to serve Halibut?
Grilling halibut is one of the best ways to enjoy the delicately firm fish, as it gives a nice crisp texture to the outside with a moist, juicy texture inside.
To get the most out of your grilled halibut, season it with freshly squeezed lemon juice and dill weed before placing it on the pre-oiled hot grill.
Grill each side for 5 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through. When done properly, this method yields a lightly browned halibut that is cooked throughout without drying out; serve with lemon wedges for a complete meal.
FAQs
Should halibut be cooked well done?
When it comes to halibut, the debate over whether this flaky fish should be cooked well done is an interesting one.
On the one hand, many argue that a well-done piece of halibut can bring out even richer flavors and enhance its texture in comparison to a more tender cut.
On the other hand, when taken too far, a well-done halibut can quickly lose its desired texture and become chewy, resulting in an unsatisfactory dish.
Ultimately, when balancing flavor with texture, it is important to determine how long your halibut needs to be cooked based on your own personal preferences. Ideally, though, neither too soft nor too tough is what you should aim for when cooking this worthwhile delicacy.
Should you soak halibut before cooking?
Soaking halibut in salt water prior to cooking helps to firm up the flesh of the fish and enhances its flavor.
When those two benefits are taken into consideration, soaking halibut before cooking is the ideal way to go. You should, however, be wary of overpowering the flavor of delicate dishes by leaving the halibut in a saline solution for too long.
For best results, use 1/4 cup of sea salt for every quart of cold water and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak, before rinsing and patting dry.
How do you cook halibut, so it’s not dry?
Halibut is a delicate and flavorful fish, so it’s important to cook it correctly in order to retain its moisture. The best ways to ensure your halibut comes out succulent and delicious are by steaming or poaching in aromatic liquids for short periods of time or grilling over high heat for just a few minutes.
You can also try baking the halibut with ingredients like butter or oil to really lock in the moisture, and when pan-frying, be sure to have a look at the cooking time.
Cooking halibut correctly will result in a flavorful and moist meal that is perfect for sharing with family