Name: Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 24 oz halibut fillets; 4 tsp lemon juice; 1 sprig rosemary leaves; 2 stems thyme leaves; 2 stems basil leaves; 2 stems oregano leaves; ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs; 2 tsp olive oil; ½ medium red onion; 1 bulb fennel; 1 yellow bell pepper; 1 orange bell pepper; 4 roma plum tomatoes; ½ cup pitted kalamata olives; 3 tbsp parsley; 1 lemon

Enjoy a delightful and flavorful dish with halibut, complemented by the aromatic blend of fennel, peppers, and tomatoes. This recipe offers a perfect combination of tender halibut fillets with a crisp panko breadcrumb topping, nestled among savory vegetables. A harmonious play of textures and flavors awaits in every bite.

Photos of Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes Recipe

While most of the ingredients are common, a few may stand out. Fennel might not be in everyone's pantry but can typically be found in the produce section. Kalamata olives add a briny depth and can be found in the olive aisle. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano can usually be located in the fresh herb section.

Ingredients For Halibut With Fennel, Peppers, And Tomatoes

Halibut fillets: A firm, white fish that's mild in flavor and perfect for baking.

Lemon juice: Provides acidity and brightness to the dish.

Rosemary leaves: An aromatic herb that adds a piney, earthy flavor.

Thyme leaves: A subtle herb with a slightly minty flavor.

Basil leaves: Adds a sweet, peppery essence.

Oregano leaves: A robust herb that gives a slightly bitter, peppery taste.

Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that add a crispy texture.

Olive oil: Used for cooking and enhancing flavors.

Red onion: Adds a mild, sweet flavor to the dish.

Fennel: Provides a slight anise or licorice flavor and a crunchy texture.

Yellow bell pepper: Sweet and colorful, adds a vibrant crunch.

Orange bell pepper: Similar to yellow, brings additional sweetness and color.

Roma plum tomatoes: Firm and less watery, ideal for cooking.

Kalamata olives: Dark, flavorful olives that add a briny punch.

Parsley: Fresh herb used for garnish and a burst of green flavor.

Lemon: Adds zest and acidity, enhancing the overall taste.

One reader, Harlan Jurado says:

This halibut recipe is a delightful blend of flavors! The fennel, peppers, and tomatoes create a vibrant, fresh base, while the panko adds a perfect crunch. The herbs elevate the dish beautifully. A must-try for seafood lovers!

Harlan Jurado

Cooking Techniques for Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes

How to chop herbs: Coarsely chop the rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano leaves on a cutting board. How to heat oil: Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-proof skillet over medium heat. How to cook onions: Cook the onions in the skillet until they begin to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. How to cook vegetables: Add fennel and bell pepper slices to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, then add tomatoes, olives, and chopped herbs, cooking for an additional 3 minutes. How to bake fish: Place the fish fillets on top of the vegetables in the skillet, sprinkle with panko mixture, and bake in the oven at 425 degrees F for 12 to 15 minutes until the fish is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 135 degrees F. How to serve: Divide the vegetables between four plates, top each with a fish fillet, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

How To Make Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes

Savor a flavorful meal with this crumb-topped baked halibut. It’s cooked on a bed of bell peppers, tomatoes, and olives, then served with lemon wedges.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

24ozhalibut fillets,(4 fillets)
4tsplemon juice
1sprigrosemary leaves
2stemsthyme leaves
2stemsbasil leaves
2stemsoregano leaves
½cupPanko breadcrumbs
2tspolive oil,plus 2 tbsp
½mediumred onion,sliced
1bulb fennel,cored and sliced
1yellow bell pepper,seeded and sliced into strips
1orange bell pepper,seeded and sliced into strips
4Roma plum tomatoes,halved lengthwise and cut into strips
½cuppitted Kalamata olives
3tbspparsley,chopped, to garnish
1lemon,quartered, to garnish

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Place the halibut fillets on a large plate and season both sides with salt and pepper. Sprinkle each fillet with 1 teaspoon lemon juice.
Combine the herbs on a cutting board and coarsely chop. In a small bowl, combine the Panko, 2 teaspoons of the oil, and a pinch each of salt and pepper.
In a large, oven-proof skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until it begins to soften.
Add the fennel and bell pepper slices, and cook for 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, olives, and the chopped herbs. Cook for 3 minutes. Salt and pepper to taste.
Place the fish fillets on top of the vegetables in the skillet. Sprinkle each fillet with 2 tablespoons of the Panko mixture.
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 6 minutes. If the Panko is browning too quickly, place a piece of aluminum foil loosely on top of the fish.
Bake for another 6 to 9 minutes (12 to 15 minutes total) until the center of the fish is opaque when probed with a small knife. When checked with an instant-read thermometer, the temperature of the center of the fish should register a 135 degrees F.
Divide the vegetables between four plates and top each plate with a fish fillet. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Calories: 289.20kcal
Fat: 7.21g
Saturated Fat: 1.21g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.11g
Carbohydrates: 22.22g
Fiber: 5.95g
Sugar: 6.56g
Protein: 35.11g
Cholesterol: 83.35mg
Sodium: 288.79mg
Calcium: 122.06mg
Potassium: 1385.92mg
Iron: 2.90mg
Vitamin A: 163.89µg
Vitamin C: 156.32mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting This Halibut Recipe

When chopping the fennel, make sure to remove the tough core at the base of the bulb. Slice the fennel thinly to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes tender. Additionally, when adding the panko breadcrumbs to the halibut, press them gently onto the fish to help them adhere better, ensuring a crisp, golden crust.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Halibut Dish

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the fennel, bell peppers, and onion the night before and store them in airtight containers.

Use pre-minced herbs: Save time by using pre-minced rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano available in grocery stores.

One-pan method: Cook the vegetables and halibut in the same oven-proof skillet to minimize cleanup.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prep the ingredients to save waiting time.

Instant-read thermometer: Use an instant-read thermometer to quickly check if the halibut is cooked to perfection.

Substitute Ingredients For Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes Recipe

halibut fillets - Substitute with cod fillets: Cod has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative to halibut.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor to lemon juice.
rosemary leaves - Substitute with sage leaves: Sage offers a robust flavor that can complement the other herbs in the recipe.
thyme leaves - Substitute with marjoram leaves: Marjoram has a slightly sweet and mild flavor similar to thyme.
basil leaves - Substitute with mint leaves: Mint provides a fresh and aromatic flavor that can replace basil.
oregano leaves - Substitute with marjoram leaves: Marjoram is closely related to oregano and has a similar flavor profile.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can provide a similar texture and crunch.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a good alternative to olive oil.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to red onions.
fennel - Substitute with celery: Celery provides a similar crunchy texture and can mimic the slight anise flavor of fennel.
yellow bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers have a similar sweetness and texture to yellow bell peppers.
orange bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell peppers offer a slightly more bitter flavor but can still work well in the recipe.
roma plum tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes have a similar sweetness and can be used in place of roma tomatoes.
pitted kalamata olives - Substitute with black olives: Black olives have a milder flavor but can still provide the briny taste needed in the recipe.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh and slightly citrusy flavor that can replace parsley.
lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor to lemon.

Plating Ideas for Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes

Select the finest halibut fillets: Ensure the halibut is fresh and of the highest quality. The fish should have a firm texture and a translucent appearance.
Create a vibrant vegetable base: Slice the red onion, fennel, yellow bell pepper, and orange bell pepper into uniform, thin strips. This will ensure even cooking and a visually appealing presentation.
Cook vegetables to perfection: Sauté the onion until it begins to soften, then add the fennel and bell peppers. Cook until they are tender but still retain a slight crunch, adding the tomatoes and kalamata olives towards the end to maintain their shape and color.
Season with fresh herbs: Coarsely chop the rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano. Add these to the vegetable mix for an aromatic and flavorful base.
Prepare the panko topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will create a golden, crispy topping for the halibut.
Layer the dish artfully: Place the halibut fillets on top of the vegetable mixture in the skillet. Ensure each fillet is evenly spaced and sprinkle with the panko mixture.
Bake to perfection: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the halibut is just opaque in the center. Keep an eye on the panko topping to prevent over-browning, using foil if necessary.
Plate with precision: Divide the vegetable mixture evenly among four plates, creating a colorful bed for the halibut. Place a fillet on top of each vegetable bed.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each plate for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Halibut Recipe

Oven: Used to bake the halibut fillets and vegetables at a consistent temperature of 425 degrees F.
Large plate: Used for seasoning the halibut fillets with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Cutting board: Essential for chopping the herbs and slicing the vegetables.
Chef's knife: Used for chopping herbs and slicing the onion, fennel, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
Small bowl: Used to mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Large oven-proof skillet: Used to cook the vegetables on the stovetop and then bake the fish in the oven.
Wooden spoon: Used for stirring the vegetables as they cook in the skillet.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the lemon juice, olive oil, and other seasonings.
Instant-read thermometer: Used to check the internal temperature of the fish to ensure it reaches 135 degrees F.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the fish if the panko breadcrumbs are browning too quickly.
Serving plates: Used to divide the vegetables and serve the fish fillets.
Lemon wedges: Used as a garnish when serving the dish.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes

Let the halibut cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze the leftovers, place the cooled halibut and vegetables in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
When properly stored, the frozen halibut and vegetables can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw the halibut and vegetables in the refrigerator overnight.
Place the thawed halibut and vegetables in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the halibut and vegetables in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring gently to prevent the fish from breaking apart.
Note: Reheated halibut may have a slightly different texture compared to freshly cooked fish, but it will still be delicious when paired with the flavorful vegetables.

How to Reheat Leftover Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover halibut and vegetables in an oven-safe dish, making sure to evenly distribute the fennel, peppers, and tomatoes around the fish.
Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the fish from drying out during the reheating process.
Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the halibut reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C). The exact reheating time may vary depending on the thickness of the fish and the amount of leftovers.
Alternatively, you can reheat the halibut and vegetables in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small opening for steam to escape. Microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, then check the temperature of the fish. If needed, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the desired temperature is reached.
For a crispy texture on the reheated halibut, remove the aluminum foil or microwave-safe lid during the last 2-3 minutes of reheating. This will allow the panko topping to crisp up again.
Once the halibut and vegetables are heated through, remove the dish from the oven or microwave. Let it stand for 1-2 minutes before serving, as the dish will be hot.
Garnish the reheated halibut with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. Serve the dish immediately and enjoy your delicious leftovers!

Interesting Trivia About Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes

A random fact about this recipe is that fennel is not only a flavorful addition but also a nutritious one. It is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a healthy choice for enhancing the halibut dish.

Budget-Friendly: Making Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes at Home

This halibut with fennel, peppers, and tomatoes recipe is moderately cost-effective. The halibut fillets are the most expensive component, but the use of fresh vegetables and herbs balances the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $40-$50 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is This Halibut Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This halibut recipe is generally healthy, offering a balance of lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional aspects:

Halibut is a lean, low-calorie source of protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health
The dish includes a variety of vegetables, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats
Herbs and lemon juice add flavor without excessive calories or sodium

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved:

The panko breadcrumbs add some refined carbohydrates and calories
Depending on the amount of salt added, the dish could be high in sodium, especially with the olives

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the panko breadcrumbs with a whole-grain alternative or finely chopped nuts for added fiber and healthy fats
Use a light hand when adding salt, as the olives and seasoning may provide enough flavor
Increase the proportion of vegetables to fish for added fiber and nutrients
Serve the dish with a side of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to make it a more balanced meal
Use a variety of colorful vegetables to maximize the range of vitamins and minerals
Experiment with additional herbs and spices to enhance flavor without relying on salt

Editor's Opinion on This Halibut Recipe

This halibut recipe beautifully balances flavors and textures. The combination of fresh herbs, panko breadcrumbs, and vibrant vegetables creates a delightful medley. The fennel and bell peppers add a subtle sweetness, while the kalamata olives provide a briny contrast. Baking the fish on top of the vegetables ensures it stays moist and absorbs the aromatic flavors. The final touch of parsley and lemon wedges brightens the dish, making it both visually appealing and delicious. Overall, it's a well-rounded, elegant dish perfect for a sophisticated dinner.

Enhance Your Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy goodness of potatoes infused with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. This side-dish will perfectly complement the delicate texture of the halibut and the vibrant medley of vegetables.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of elegance with grilled asparagus drizzled with a hint of lemon zest. The slight char and citrusy brightness will enhance the fresh flavors of the fennel, peppers, and tomatoes.

Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light and refreshing quinoa salad mixed with a variety of herbs and a splash of citrus. This side-dish will add a nutty texture and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the halibut.

Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet and succulent corn on the cob, brushed with butter and a sprinkle of sea salt. This simple yet delightful side-dish will bring a touch of summer to your plate, balancing the savory notes of the fish and vegetables.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A vibrant and zesty salsa made with mango, avocado, and a hint of lime juice. This refreshing side-dish will add a tropical twist and a creamy texture that complements the halibut perfectly.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Halibut Dish

Mediterranean Baked Cod: Dive into the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful main course. Featuring cod fillets baked with a medley of cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and red onions, this dish is a burst of vibrant colors and flavors. A sprinkle of feta cheese and fresh parsley completes this easy yet elegant meal.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon: Experience the zesty freshness of lemon and the aromatic touch of herbs with this grilled salmon recipe. Marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, and then grilled to perfection, this dish is perfect for a light and healthy dinner.

Roasted Vegetable Ratatouille: A classic French dish, this ratatouille is a celebration of summer vegetables. Eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes are roasted together with olive oil and herbs de Provence for a comforting and flavorful vegetarian main course.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: These stuffed bell peppers are a hearty and satisfying main course. Filled with a mixture of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and spices, and then baked until tender, they make for a perfect family meal. Top with cheese and fresh herbs for an extra touch of deliciousness.

Shrimp and Vegetable Skewers: Perfect for a summer barbecue, these shrimp and vegetable skewers are both colorful and flavorful. Marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, and then grilled alongside bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, they are a delightful and healthy main course.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Halibut Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with Stuffed Mushrooms. These delightful bites are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked to perfection, offering a crispy exterior and a creamy, flavorful filling. Garnish with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley for an elegant touch. Perfect for any gathering, these mushrooms are sure to impress your guests with their rich taste and beautiful presentation.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with Bruschetta. This classic appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar, each bite is a burst of fresh, zesty flavors. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy toppings makes this a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and sophisticated. Serve it as a starter to set the tone for a delightful meal.

Desserts:

Lemon Tart: A Lemon Tart is a delightful way to end your meal. Imagine a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd that balances sweetness and acidity perfectly. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor. This dessert is both refreshing and satisfying, making it an ideal choice to complement the savory notes of your main course.

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in the rich and velvety texture of a Chocolate Mousse. This dessert features a smooth blend of dark chocolate and heavy cream, creating a luxurious treat that melts in your mouth. Garnish with a few fresh berries and a sprig of mint for a touch of color and freshness. The deep, intense flavors of the chocolate provide a perfect contrast to the light and vibrant main course.

Why trust this Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes Recipe:

This recipe combines the delicate flavor of halibut with the aromatic blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, basil, and oregano. The addition of fennel, bell peppers, and roma tomatoes creates a vibrant and nutritious vegetable medley. The panko breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, while the kalamata olives and lemon juice enhance the dish with a burst of flavor. This recipe is tested and perfected to ensure a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

Want to share your experience making this Halibut with Fennel, Peppers, and Tomatoes Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How do I know when the halibut is fully cooked?

The halibut is fully cooked when the center is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. You can also use an instant-read thermometer; it should register 135 degrees F in the thickest part of the fish.

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute halibut with other firm white fish like cod, haddock, or sea bass. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it might vary slightly.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If you don't have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. The texture might be a bit different, but it'll still be delicious.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the vegetables and the panko mixture ahead of time, but I recommend cooking the fish just before serving to ensure it stays fresh and flaky.

What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or a light pasta. The vegetables in the recipe are already quite hearty, so you don't need much else!