Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as stunning as it is delicious? Introducing the Hazelnut Crusted Halibut with Roasted Asparagus—a recipe that combines the delicate flavors of fresh halibut with a crunchy, nutty crust, all perfectly paired with vibrant, roasted asparagus. This dish not only looks impressive but also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. With a zesty lemon finish, it’s sure to impress your family and guests alike. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 halibut fillets
- 1 cup hazelnuts, crushed
- 1 bunch asparagus
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the halibut cooks evenly and the asparagus roasts perfectly.
- Prepare the hazelnut crust by placing the crushed hazelnuts in a shallow dish. If you haven't crushed them yet, you can place whole hazelnuts in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Be careful not to grind them into a powder.
- Season the halibut fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the fish.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned halibut fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- While the halibut is searing, prepare the asparagus. Rinse the asparagus under cold water, then trim the tough ends. Place the asparagus on a baking sheet and drizzle with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- After searing the halibut, carefully flip each fillet over. Immediately sprinkle the crushed hazelnuts generously on top of each fillet, pressing down gently to adhere.
- Transfer the skillet with the halibut to the preheated oven. Place the baking sheet with the asparagus in the oven as well. Roast both the halibut and asparagus for about 12-15 minutes, or until the halibut is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the halibut and asparagus are roasting, slice the lemon into wedges. These will be used for serving.
- Once cooked, remove the halibut and asparagus from the oven. Let the halibut rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
- To serve, place a halibut fillet on each plate alongside a portion of roasted asparagus. Garnish with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor. Enjoy your Hazelnut Crusted Halibut with Roasted Asparagus!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Halibut: For the best flavor and texture, select fresh halibut fillets. Look for firm, moist flesh with a mild scent of the ocean.
- Crush Hazelnuts Properly: When crushing hazelnuts, aim for a coarse texture. Avoid turning them into a powder, as you want the pieces to create a delightful crunch on the halibut.
- Sear for Flavor: Don't skip the searing step! It adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a beautiful golden crust to the halibut. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the fish.
- Roast Asparagus to Perfection: Keep an eye on the asparagus while it roasts. You want it tender yet still slightly crisp, with a hint of caramelization for added flavor.
- Lemon Zest Adds Brightness: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of lemon zest over the halibut and asparagus before serving. It enhances the freshness of the dish.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the dish for an extra layer of flavor. They pair beautifully with both the halibut and asparagus.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Serve it right away to ensure the halibut remains flaky and the asparagus retains its vibrant color and crunch. Enjoy your cooking experience and savor every bite of this delightful meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 85mg