I love making this easy baked halibut when I want something light, flavorful, and effortless. The fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs bring out the natural sweetness of the halibut, while the oven does most of the work. I find this dish perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 to 1½ lbs halibut fillets (about 2–3 pieces)
2 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (or fresh herbs if available)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). I lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a small bowl, I mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. This mixture becomes the flavorful coating for the fish.
I pat the halibut fillets dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning adhere better. Then I brush both sides of each fillet generously with the olive oil mixture.
I place the fillets in the prepared baking dish and bake them for 12–15 minutes. I check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork. When it flakes easily and looks opaque throughout, I know it is ready. I am careful not to overcook it because halibut can dry out quickly.
Before serving, I garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill and add lemon wedges on the side. Sometimes I add cherry tomatoes or thin lemon slices on top before baking for extra flavor. If I want a slight golden crust, I broil the fish for the last 1–2 minutes.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 2 to 3 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: About 25 minutes
Variations
I sometimes swap dried thyme for oregano or use fresh herbs when I have them available. I also like adding thinly sliced lemons on top of the fillets while baking for a brighter citrus flavor.
For a Mediterranean twist, I add cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of capers before baking. If I want a richer finish, I drizzle a small amount of melted butter over the fish just before serving.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover halibut in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I place it in a baking dish, cover it loosely with foil, and warm it in a 300°F oven until heated through. I avoid microwaving when possible because it can dry out the fish.
If I plan to use leftovers, I sometimes flake the cold halibut into salads or mix it into rice bowls for a quick meal.
FAQs
How do I know when halibut is fully cooked?
I check if the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F for safe consumption.
Can I use frozen halibut?
I can use frozen halibut, but I make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and baking to avoid excess moisture.
What sides pair well with baked halibut?
I like serving it with steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, rice, quinoa, or a light green salad. The mild flavor pairs well with many simple sides.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
I can mix the olive oil seasoning ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, I prefer seasoning the fish just before baking for the best texture.
Can I use a different type of fish?
I can easily substitute cod, haddock, or sea bass. I simply adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Conclusion
I find this easy baked halibut recipe to be one of the most reliable and flavorful ways to prepare fish. The bright lemon, fragrant garlic, and simple herbs make it fresh and satisfying every time. Whenever I want a healthy, quick, and delicious meal, this is the recipe I turn to.
📖 Recipe:
Easy Baked Halibut
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A light and flavorful baked halibut recipe featuring fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs. This quick and effortless dish highlights the natural sweetness of halibut and is perfect for both busy weeknights and elegant dinners.
Ingredients
1 to 1½ lbs halibut fillets (about 2–3 pieces)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp dried thyme or oregano (or fresh herbs)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the halibut fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Brush both sides of each fillet generously with the olive oil mixture.
- Place the fillets in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout (internal temperature of 145°F).
- Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for a lightly golden top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or dill and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
Do not overcook the halibut, as it can dry out quickly.
Thin lemon slices or cherry tomatoes can be added before baking for extra flavor.
Capers and cherry tomatoes create a Mediterranean variation.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a 300°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
