Pan-Seared Halibut with White Wine Sauce

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dish that is elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare, Pan-Seared Halibut with White Wine Sauce is a perfect choice. This recipe highlights halibut’s delicate, slightly sweet flavor by searing it to golden perfection and pairing it with a silky, buttery white wine sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs. It’s restaurant-quality food made effortlessly at home.

What makes this dish truly special is its balance—crispy golden crust on the outside, tender flaky fish inside, all brought together with a sauce that’s rich yet refreshing. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a family meal, or a dinner party, this halibut recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity and elegance in one pan. The halibut is mild enough to appeal to almost anyone, yet when paired with the white wine sauce, it transforms into something extraordinary. The sauce is a wonderful mix of buttery richness and citrus brightness, with the white wine adding depth that feels sophisticated without being overwhelming.

Another reason I adore this dish is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or light salads. And since halibut is a lean, protein-rich fish, it’s a wholesome meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Pan-Seared Halibut with White Wine Sauce is the kind of recipe that proves gourmet cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s a must-try because:

• Restaurant Quality at Home – You get the same refined flavors you’d expect from a fine dining seafood restaurant, but made easily in your own kitchen.
• Quick and Effortless – In under 30 minutes, you have a stunning dish ready to impress family or guests.
• Perfect Flavor Balance – The halibut’s mild sweetness is enhanced by the golden sear, while the white wine sauce adds buttery richness and bright citrus notes.
• Healthy and Wholesome – Lean protein, low carbs, and nourishing flavors make it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Versatile Pairing Options – It complements a wide variety of sides, from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies or a simple salad.

Recipe Details

• Cuisine: European / French-Inspired
• Course: Main Dish / Dinner
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~320 calories per serving (without sides)

Ingredients

For the Halibut:

• 4 halibut fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless if preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the White Wine Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for creamier sauce)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Halibut

1. Pat halibut fillets dry with paper towels.
2. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Halibut

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Place halibut fillets in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.
3. Remove halibut from skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the White Wine Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in white wine and broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.
4. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until reduced by half.
5. Stir in lemon juice and cream (if using), then add chopped parsley.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

1. Return halibut to the skillet briefly to coat with sauce.
2. Plate fish and spoon extra sauce on top.
3. Garnish with lemon slices and parsley.

How to Serve

• Serve halibut over creamy mashed potatoes, risotto, or buttered noodles.
• Pair with roasted asparagus, green beans, or sautéed spinach.
• A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Make sure the pan is hot before adding the halibut for the perfect golden crust.
• Use a dry white wine (not sweet) for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
• For extra flavor, add a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce.

Variations

1. Pan-Seared Cod with White Wine Sauce: Substitute halibut with cod or haddock.
2. Creamy Garlic White Wine Sauce: Double the cream for a richer, velvety sauce.
3. Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers.
4. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
• Freezer: Not recommended for this dish as halibut can dry out and the sauce may separate.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet (stainless steel or cast iron preferred)
• Fish spatula (for easy flipping without breaking the fillets)
• Whisk (for smooth sauce)

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Halibut with White Wine Sauce is a restaurant-worthy recipe that’s quick, elegant, and bursting with flavor. The tender, flaky fish paired with the buttery, garlicky, and lemony wine sauce makes every bite a treat. Perfect for weeknights when you want something special yet simple, or for entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Once you try it, it will become one of your favorite go-to seafood recipes.

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Pan-Seared Halibut with White Wine Sauce

Author: admin Cuisine: European Courses: Seafood

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Total Time 25 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 320 calories

Description

If you’re looking for a dish that is elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare, Pan-Seared Halibut with White Wine Sauce is a perfect choice. This recipe highlights halibut’s delicate, slightly sweet flavor by searing it to golden perfection and pairing it with a silky, buttery white wine sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and herbs.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

For the Halibut:

• 4 halibut fillets (about 6 oz each, skinless if preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the White Wine Sauce:

• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¹⁄₂ cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• ¹⁄₂ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for creamier sauce)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Halibut : Pat halibut fillets dry with paper towels.Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Step 2: Sear the Halibut : Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.Place halibut fillets in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork.Remove halibut from skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Step 3: Make the White Wine Sauce : In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter.Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.Pour in white wine and broth, scraping up browned bits from the pan.Simmer for 3–4 minutes until reduced by half.Stir in lemon juice and cream (if using), then add chopped parsley.
4. Step 4: Combine & Serve : Return halibut to the skillet briefly to coat with sauce.Plate fish and spoon extra sauce on top.Garnish with lemon slices and parsley.

Keywords: Pan-Seared Halibut with White Wine Sauce