Grilled Swordfish Recipe: A Flavorful & Easy Seafood Delight

Why Choose Swordfish?

Swordfish is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. It is an excellent source of lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins such as B12 and D. The firm texture makes it an ideal choice for grilling, as it doesn’t flake apart like more delicate fish.

Ingredients for Grilled Swordfish

To make the perfect grilled swordfish recipe, you will need:

• 2 swordfish steaks (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Zest one lemon

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

   In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, thyme, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the lemon zest and mix well. This marinade will infuse the swordfish with a balance of citrus brightness and herbaceous depth.

2. Marinate the Swordfish

   Place the swordfish steaks in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the fish marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than an hour, as too much acid can start breaking down the fish’s firm texture.

3. Preheat the Grill

   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400-450°F). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly heated and white-hot before placing the fish on the grates—lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Swordfish

   Remove the swordfish from the marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place the steaks on the hot grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until the fish is opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 130-135°F for medium and 140°F for well-done. Avoid overcooking, as swordfish can become dry.

5. Serve and Enjoy

   Once cooked, remove the swordfish from the grill and rest for a few minutes. For a well-rounded meal, serve with a fresh lemon wedge and a side of grilled vegetables, a light salad, or a simple rice pilaf.

1. Choose Fresh Swordfish: Look for steaks that are firm, moist, and have a fresh, ocean-like scent. Avoid any fish that has a strong fishy smell or discoloration.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures you get a perfectly cooked steak every time since swordfish is easy to overcook.
3. Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the fish to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain its juices and improves the overall texture.
4. Experiment with Marinades: While the citrus and herb marinade is a classic choice, you can also try a Mediterranean-style marinade with olive oil, capers, and oregano or an Asian-inspired version with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have access to a grill, you can still enjoy delicious swordfish using other cooking techniques:

1. Pan-Seared: Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and sear the swordfish for 4-5 minutes per side.
2. Oven-Baked: Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the swordfish in a baking dish with some marinade, and bake for 12-15 minutes.
3. Broiled: Set your oven to broil and cook the swordfish on the top rack for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping halfway through.

To elevate your grilled swordfish steak recipe experience, consider these delicious side dishes and accompaniments:

1. Grilled Vegetables

   Grilled swordfish pairs beautifully with smoky, charred vegetables. Consider grilling zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or eggplant. Lightly coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before placing them on the grill. The caramelized edges and natural sweetness of grilled veggies complement the savory swordfish.

2. Light and Refreshing Salads

   A crisp, refreshing salad balances the richness of swordfish. Try a Mediterranean-inspired salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, red onion, and feta cheese dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Alternatively, a citrus avocado salad with grapefruit, orange segments, and creamy avocado adds a bright contrast.

3. Whole Grains for a Hearty Touch

   Whole grains add texture and substance to your meal. A quinoa salad with fresh herbs, diced cucumbers, and lemon dressing enhances the swordfish's flavors. Couscous with roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley provides a flavorful and hearty side. Try wild rice with toasted almonds and cranberries if you prefer a warm grain dish.

4. Potatoes in Various Forms

   Potatoes make a satisfying accompaniment to grilled swordfish. Roasted baby potatoes with garlic and rosemary add earthy flavors, while mashed potatoes with a hint of lemon zest provide a creamy contrast. Try sweet potato fries with a sprinkle of sea salt and smoked paprika for a crispy option.

5. Tropical Salsas and Relishes

   A fruit-based salsa brings a vibrant and refreshing element to the dish. A mango salsa with diced mango, red bell pepper, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice enhances the swordfish's mild sweetness. Pineapple salsa with a touch of red onion and mint offers a tropical twist. Try a classic olive tapenade or a tomato and caper relish for a Mediterranean touch.

6. Garlic Butter and Herb Sauces

   Enhance your swordfish with a drizzle of garlic butter sauce or a light herb dressing. A simple mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice creates a rich, flavorful topping. Chimichurri, a bright, herbaceous sauce with parsley, cilantro, garlic, and red pepper flakes, adds depth to the dish.

7. Refreshing Beverages

   Pairing your swordfish with a light, citrus-infused drink enhances the meal. Sparkling water with lemon or a fresh cucumber-mint cooler provides a refreshing contrast. Iced green tea or a citrus spritzer can complement the dish without overpowering its delicate flavors.

With these pairing suggestions, your grilled swordfish meal will be a well-balanced, flavorful feast.

About One Stop Halal

Welcome to the Home of the Wild Caught Seafood. We carry various wild-caught fish and shrimp collections that are hard to find elsewhere. We deliver to your doorstep anywhere in the United States within 1-2 business days.