Lemon-Tarragon Crusted Halibut
Discover the delightful flavors of our Lemon-Tarragon Crusted Halibut, a perfect dish for those observing Lent or anyone seeking a light yet satisfying meal. This recipe showcases tender fish fillets topped with a flavorful crust made from fresh breadcrumbs, aromatic tarragon, and zesty lemon. Whether you choose halibut or cod, the result is a dish that's not only economical but also impressively tasty. Easy to prepare and on the table in under 30 minutes, it's great for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Serve alongside your favorite vegetables or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
2 (tablespoons, melted)
garlic clove
1 (minced)
coarse fresh breadcrumbs
1 (cup)
fresh tarragon
2 (teaspoons, minced)
lemon zest
1 (teaspoon, finely grated)
salt
1/4 (teaspoon)
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
halibut fillets
4 ((5 ounces each, or substitute cod))
mayonnaise
4 (teaspoons)
prepared horseradish
2 (teaspoons)
lemon wedge
as needed (for serving)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3
Stir in the coarse breadcrumbs, minced tarragon, finely grated lemon zest, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to combine, allowing the breadcrumbs to soak up the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.
4
Place the halibut (or cod) fillets on the prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and prepared horseradish. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of each fish fillet.
5
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture generously over the fillets, gently patting down to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
7
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this Lemon-Tarragon Crusted Halibut recipe?
The recipe features halibut fillets, though cod is suggested as a suitable and economical substitute.
What temperature should the oven be set to for baking the halibut?
The oven should be preheated to 400°F (200°C).
How long does it take to cook the fish?
The halibut fillets should bake for 10-12 minutes until they flake easily with a fork.
What are the primary flavor components of the crust?
The crust is made from fresh breadcrumbs, minced tarragon, garlic, and finely grated lemon zest.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, the dish is easy to prepare and can be on the table in under 30 minutes.
What is used as a binder to help the breadcrumbs stay on the fish?
A mixture of mayonnaise and prepared horseradish is spread over the fish to adhere the breadcrumbs.
How much fish is recommended per person?
The recipe calls for 4 fillets that are approximately 5 ounces each.
How should the baking sheet be prepared?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
What should I look for to know the fish is done?
The fish is ready when it is cooked through, flakes easily with a fork, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
Can I use dried tarragon instead of fresh?
While the recipe specifies fresh tarragon for the best aromatic flavor, you can use dried herbs if necessary, typically using about one-third of the amount.
What type of breadcrumbs are best for this halibut recipe?
Coarse fresh breadcrumbs are recommended to provide a satisfying, crispy crust.
What role does the garlic play in the preparation?
One minced garlic clove is sautéed in butter for one minute until fragrant to flavor the breadcrumb mixture.
What side dishes are recommended for this meal?
This dish pairs perfectly with your favorite vegetables or a refreshing side salad.
Is this recipe appropriate for Lenten meals?
Yes, it is specifically noted as a perfect dish for those observing Lent.
How do you incorporate the lemon flavor into the dish?
Lemon zest is mixed into the breadcrumbs, and the fish is served with lemon wedges on the side.
What is the purpose of the horseradish in the recipe?
Prepared horseradish is mixed with mayonnaise to provide a zesty base that adds flavor and moisture to the fillets.
How much salt is used in the seasoning?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of salt mixed into the breadcrumb crust.
How much butter is required?
You will need 2 tablespoons of melted butter to sauté the garlic and bind the crumbs.
How many ingredients are required in total?
There are 11 total ingredients including the fish, seasoning, and garnishes.
Does the recipe require specific seasoning for the fish itself?
The fish is seasoned indirectly via the mayo-horseradish spread and the salt and pepper within the breadcrumb topping.
What texture should the breadcrumb topping have?
The topping should be golden brown and crisp, contrasting with the tender, flaky fish beneath.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
The recipe uses mayonnaise as a binder; however, you could likely use Greek yogurt or sour cream as an alternative, though the flavor profile will change.
How should the breadcrumbs be applied?
Sprinkle them generously over the coated fillets and gently pat them down to ensure they stick.
Why sauté the garlic before mixing it with the breadcrumbs?
Sautéing the garlic in butter first mellows its sharpness and infuses the fat with flavor before it coats the breadcrumbs.
Is the recipe considered economical?
Yes, particularly if you choose cod as a substitute for halibut, making it a budget-friendly seafood option.
What kind of pepper is suggested?
Freshly ground black pepper is recommended to be added to the crust mixture to taste.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe is designed to provide 4 servings, using 4 fillets.
Is the lemon zest finely or coarsely grated?
The recipe specifies 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest.
Can this dish be served at gatherings?
Yes, its impressive taste and easy preparation make it great for both casual gatherings and weeknight dinners.
What is the total preparation time including baking?
The entire process takes less than 30 minutes to complete.