Microwave Almond-Crusted Halibut Delight
Elevate your seafood experience with this incredible Microwave Almond-Crusted Halibut Delight. Perfectly suited for those hectic days when you crave a nutritious meal but are pressed for time, this recipe brings together buttery halibut fillets and crunchy slivered almonds, all infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. In just about 10 minutes, you'll have a flavorful dish that impresses with minimal effort and maximum taste, making it ideal for busy weeknights or an elegant last-minute dinner party. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
halibut fillet
1 lb (fresh)
butter
1/3 cup (unsalted)
slivered almonds
1/4 cup (raw or toasted)
lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
dill weed
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (black, freshly ground)
paprika
1/4 teaspoon (smoked or sweet)
Instructions
1
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and slivered almonds. Microwave uncovered on high for 2 minutes, or until the almonds are golden brown, stirring halfway through the cooking time.
2
While the almonds are toasting, prepare a greased microwave-safe 11-in x 7-in x 2-in dish. Lay the halibut fillets evenly in the dish.
3
Pour the toasted almond mixture over the halibut fillets, making sure they are generously coated.
4
In a separate small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, dill weed, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the fish fillets for added flavor.
5
Finish by sprinkling the paprika on top of the halibut for a touch of color and flavor.
6
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or wrap it with microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving one side open to allow steam to escape.
7
Microwave on high for 4 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. Let it stand for 1 minute before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Microwave Almond-Crusted Halibut Delight?
It is a quick and nutritious seafood dish featuring halibut fillets topped with buttery, toasted slivered almonds, lemon juice, and herbs, prepared entirely in the microwave.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the total cooking time for the fish?
The halibut itself cooks on high for 4 minutes, plus a 1-minute standing time.
How do I toast the almonds for this recipe?
Combine slivered almonds and butter in a bowl and microwave on high for 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
What size dish should I use?
An 11-inch by 7-inch by 2-inch microwave-safe dish is recommended.
How can I tell if the halibut is fully cooked?
The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.
What type of halibut should I buy?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of fresh halibut fillets.
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, the recipe specifically suggests using 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill weed.
Do I need to cover the dish while microwaving the fish?
Yes, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving one side open to let steam escape.
What gives the dish its color?
A final sprinkle of 1/4 teaspoon of paprika provides both color and a touch of flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for busy weeknights?
Yes, it is ideal for hectic days as it takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and cook.
What side dishes pair well with this halibut?
It is delicious served with steamed vegetables or a refreshing side salad.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
While the recipe calls for fresh lemon juice, lime juice can be used as a zesty alternative.
How much butter is required?
You will need 1/3 cup of unsalted butter.
Are the almonds raw or toasted?
You can start with either raw or toasted slivered almonds, as they will be further toasted in butter during the process.
Is the cooking dish greased?
Yes, you should prepare a greased microwave-safe dish before laying down the fish.
What spices are included in the lemon mixture?
The mixture includes lemon juice, dill weed, salt, and black pepper.
How long should the dish sit before serving?
Let the halibut stand for 1 minute after microwaving to ensure even heat distribution.
Can I substitute halibut with another fish?
Yes, other firm white fish like cod or sea bass can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it uses fresh seafood, nuts, and citrus for a nutrient-dense, high-protein meal.
Does this recipe require a lot of effort?
No, it is described as a minimal-effort dish that produces elegant results.
What is the purpose of the almonds?
The almonds provide a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the buttery halibut.
Can I use pre-ground pepper?
The recipe recommends freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor.
How much salt is used?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of salt, or to taste.
Is there a specific microwave power level to use?
Both the almonds and the fish should be microwaved on the 'high' setting.
How do I apply the lemon mixture?
Drizzle the mixture of lemon juice and herbs evenly over the almond-coated fish fillets.
Can I use smoked paprika?
Yes, you can use either smoked or sweet paprika depending on your flavor preference.
What is the preparation for the fish?
The fish should be fresh fillets laid evenly in the prepared dish.
Can this be served at a dinner party?
Absolutely, its impressive presentation and taste make it suitable for elegant last-minute entertaining.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe is categorized under Halibut/Seafood.