Description
At its simplest, Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Herb Butter is a culinary preparation that highlights a premium cut of fish through high-heat searing and a rich, aromatic finishing sauce. Swordfish is unique in the seafood world because it does not have the flaky, fragile texture of white fish like cod or tilapia. Instead, it is dense, firm, and holds its shape exceptionally well on a grill grate.
Ingredients
For the fish:
- 4 swordfish steaks (about 6–8 oz each, 1-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the lemon herb butter:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil or dill, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the herb butter:
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter with lemon juice, zest, parsley, basil/dill, garlic, and salt.
- Shape into a log using parchment paper, then chill until firm.
- Prep the swordfish:
- Pat swordfish steaks dry.
- Brush lightly with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Grill the fish:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill swordfish for 4–5 minutes per side, until opaque and just cooked through (internal temp ~145°F / 63°C).
- Avoid overcooking to keep the fish moist.
- Finish with butter:
- Place hot swordfish steaks on plates.
- Top each with a slice of chilled lemon herb butter so it melts over the fish.
Notes
This Grilled Swordfish with Lemon Herb Butter is a light yet luxurious seafood main, perfect for summer dinners or healthy weeknights. Serve with grilled asparagus, zucchini, or a fresh tomato-cucumber salad for vibrant sides. For extra brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon, capers, or chopped parsley on top. It pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, quinoa pilaf, crusty bread, or a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc—ideal for al fresco meals!
- Prep Time: 10minutes
- Cook Time: 10minutes
- Category: Maincourse
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1steak
- Calories: 450kcal
Keywords: Swordfish Steaks with Herb Butter, Lemon Garlic Grilled Swordfish, Easy Grilled Swordfish Recipe, Seafood Steak with Citrus Butter