When it comes to seafood, few dishes can match the succulence and bold flavors of the Mediterranean-style 'Swordfish Skewers'. This dish perfectly combines the firm, meaty texture of swordfish with the smoky richness of pancetta, all enhanced by the fragrant herbal blend of herbes de Provence. With a quick grilling, these skewers become a mouthwatering delight that brings a touch of coastal Europe to your dining table.
The main ingredients of this recipe are fairly straightforward, but you might need to check your local supermarket or fish market for the swordfish steak. Swordfish is a unique kind of fish with a meaty texture that holds up well on a skewer, ideal for grilling. Another ingredient to note is herbes de Provence, a traditional French blend of aromatic herbs that usually includes rosemary, thyme, oregano, and marjoram. If you can't find it readily, you can make your own blend at home.
Ingredients for Swordfish Skewers
Extra virgin olive oil: It acts as a healthy cooking medium and also helps in binding the herb mix onto the swordfish.
Herbes de provence: This is a blend of aromatic herbs that gives the fish a distinctive Mediterranean flavor.
Salt and pepper: These are basic seasonings, used for enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
Swordfish steak: Swordfish is the hero of this dish, with its meaty texture and mild flavor, it's perfect for grilling.
Pancetta or bacon: It adds a layer of smokiness and richness to the skewers, pairing excellently with the fish.
One reader, Janey Francois says:
Absolutely loved the swordfish skewers recipe! The combination of herbes de provence and pancetta added a burst of flavor to the succulent swordfish. Grilling it to perfection was a breeze, and the end result was a delightful dish that impressed everyone at the dinner table. Can't wait to make it again!
Key Techniques for Making Swordfish Skewers
Prepare the swordfish skewers: This involves marinating the swordfish cubes in a mixture of olive oil, herbes de provence, salt, and pepper before threading them onto skewers with slices of pancetta.
Grill the skewers: The skewers are grilled over high heat, turning occasionally, until the swordfish is cooked through and lightly charred, which takes about 8 to 9 minutes.
Serve the skewers: Once cooked, the skewers are transferred to plates and served immediately.
How To Make Swordfish Spiedini
Swordfish cubes seasoned with salt and pepper and skewered with rosemary sprigs for an additional flavor, and easy Swordfish Spiedini recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 1tspherbes de provence
- salt and freshly ground pepper
- 1½lbswordfish steak,skinless
- 6pancetta,or bacon slices
Instructions
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Light a grill. In a medium bowl, mix the oil with the herbes de Provence and ½ teaspoon of each of salt and pepper.
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Add the swordfish cubes and toss to coat.
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Thread one-sixth of the swordfish cubes and 1 slice of pancetta onto each of 6 skewers, wrapping the pancetta around the fish as you go.
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Grill the spiedini over high heat, turning occasionally, until the swordfish is cooked through and lightly charred for 8 to 9 minutes.
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Transfer to plates and serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 325.57kcal
- Fat: 23.58g
- Saturated Fat: 6.30g
- Trans Fat: 0.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.71g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.65g
- Carbohydrates: 0.76g
- Fiber: 0.17g
- Sugar: 0.30g
- Protein: 26.01g
- Cholesterol: 93.98mg
- Sodium: 343.02mg
- Calcium: 12.31mg
- Potassium: 538.70mg
- Iron: 0.82mg
- Vitamin A: 44.45µg
- Vitamin C: 0.08mg
A Handy Technique Tip for Swordfish Skewers
When grilling swordfish, it's important to avoid overcooking as it can become dry and tough. To ensure your swordfish skewers are juicy and tender, keep a close eye on them while grilling. The skewers should be turned occasionally for even cooking. Also, marinating the swordfish in extra virgin olive oil and herbes de provence not only adds flavor but also helps to keep the fish moist during the grilling process.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Swordfish Skewers
Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and tools before starting the recipe to save time and avoid last-minute confusion.
Multi-task: While the grill is heating, prepare the swordfish cubes and pancetta to maximize efficiency.
Pre-cut ingredients: Purchase pre-cut swordfish to skip the prep work and save time in the kitchen.
Marinate in advance: Marinate the swordfish in the herbes de provence and oil mixture ahead of time for enhanced flavor and quicker assembly when ready to cook.
Use kitchen shears: Cut the pancetta slices into smaller pieces using kitchen shears for quicker and easier skewering.
Grill indoors: If outdoor grilling isn't an option, use a grill pan on the stovetop for a convenient alternative.
Pre-soak skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water in advance to prevent burning and splintering during grilling.
Prep extra: Prepare extra swordfish skewers and store them in the freezer for a quick and convenient meal option for later.
Substitute Ingredients For Swordfish Spiedini Recipe
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
herbes de provence - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of herbs like thyme, oregano, and basil, which can provide a similar flavor profile to herbes de provence.
swordfish steak - Substitute with halibut: Halibut has a firm texture and mild flavor similar to swordfish, making it a great alternative for this recipe.
pancetta or bacon - Substitute with prosciutto: Prosciutto can provide a similar salty and savory flavor as pancetta or bacon when used in this recipe.
Presenting Swordfish Skewers for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the skewers: Arrange the swordfish skewers on a sleek, rectangular plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Utilize negative space: Leave some areas of the plate uncovered to create a sense of balance and elegance, allowing the skewers to be the focal point.
Consider the plate shape: Choose a long, narrow plate to complement the elongated shape of the skewers, creating a visually pleasing presentation.
Add a touch of acidity: Drizzle a delicate swirl of balsamic reduction around the plate to provide a hint of acidity and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Incorporate edible flowers: Place a few carefully selected edible flowers strategically around the plate to introduce a touch of sophistication and a subtle floral note.
Pay attention to symmetry: Ensure that the skewers are arranged in a symmetrical manner, creating a sense of harmony and precision in the presentation.
Use height and layers: Consider elevating the skewers slightly by resting them on a bed of thinly sliced cucumbers, adding dimension to the overall presentation.
Essential Tools for Crafting Swordfish Skewers
- Grill: A cooking appliance that uses direct heat from below to cook food.
- Medium bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients or marinating food.
- Skewers: Long, narrow metal or wooden sticks used to hold and cook food, such as meat or vegetables, over an open flame or heat source.
- Rosemary sprigs: Fresh rosemary branches that can be used as skewers for grilling.
- Plates: Flat, usually round dishware on which food is served.
Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Swordfish Skewers
If you have any leftover swordfish skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
To freeze the swordfish skewers, first remove them from the skewers and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 2 hours or until solid, then transfer the frozen skewers to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When ready to enjoy the frozen swordfish skewers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can reheat them in the oven as mentioned above or grill them over medium-high heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through and slightly charred.
If you want to prepare the swordfish skewers in advance for a party or gathering, you can marinate the swordfish cubes and wrap them with pancetta or bacon up to a day ahead. Store the prepared skewers in the refrigerator until ready to grill. This will save you time on the day of the event and allow the flavors to meld together even more.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Swordfish Skewers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover swordfish skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the skewers lightly with olive oil to prevent them from drying out during the reheating process. Cover the skewers loosely with another sheet of foil to help retain moisture. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the swordfish is heated through and the pancetta is crispy.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the swordfish skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the fish moist during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the swordfish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the fish to become tough and rubbery.
If you have a grill or grill pan, you can reheat the skewers quickly and easily. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the skewers with a little olive oil and place them on the hot grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the swordfish is heated through and the pancetta is crispy. This method will also give the skewers a nice char and smoky flavor.
For a more flavorful option, you can reheat the swordfish skewers in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the skewers to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the swordfish is heated through and the pancetta is crispy. You can also add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the skillet to create a flavorful sauce.
A Fascinating Fact About Swordfish Skewers
Swordfish skewers are a popular dish in many coastal regions around the world. They are often enjoyed with a side of grilled vegetables and a squeeze of fresh lemon for added flavor.
Evaluating the Cost-Effectiveness of Making Swordfish Skewers at Home
This swordfish skewers recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of swordfish can be a bit pricey, but the dish is balanced by the addition of pancetta and herbes de provence. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $30-$35. The dish offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, earning a solid 8/10 rating. While it may not be the most budget-friendly option, the exquisite taste and simple preparation make it a worthwhile indulgence for a special occasion.
Is This Swordfish Dish Healthy or Not?
The swordfish skewers recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The use of pancetta or bacon adds saturated fat and sodium to the dish
- Swordfish, being a large predatory fish, may contain higher levels of mercury compared to other seafood options
- The recipe does not include any vegetables or fruits, which could provide additional nutrients and fiber
However, the recipe does have some positive aspects:
- Swordfish is a good source of protein, vitamin B12, and selenium
- The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats
- Grilling is a healthier cooking method compared to frying or deep-frying
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the pancetta or bacon with a leaner protein source, such as shrimp or scallops
- Incorporate colorful vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes onto the skewers for added nutrients and fiber
- Use a marinade made with citrus juice, garlic, and herbs to add flavor without relying on high-sodium ingredients
- Serve the skewers with a side of whole grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, to provide complex carbohydrates and additional fiber
- Limit the portion size of swordfish and balance it with a larger serving of vegetables to reduce the risk of mercury exposure
Our Editor's Take on This Swordfish Skewers Recipe
This swordfish skewers recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The herbes de provence and pancetta add a depth of savory and aromatic notes to the succulent swordfish. The grilling process enhances the natural flavors of the fish while infusing a smoky essence. The wine recommendation is a thoughtful addition, providing a perfect pairing to elevate the dining experience. Overall, this recipe offers a harmonious balance of ingredients and a delightful presentation, making it a wonderful choice for a special meal.
Enhance Your Swordfish Spiedini Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Swordfish Skewers
Ideal Appetizer and Dessert Combinations for Swordfish Skewers
Why trust this Swordfish Spiedini Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delectable experience with swordfish skewers. The use of extra virgin olive oil and herbes de provence ensures a burst of flavors. The addition of pancetta adds a savory touch, elevating the dish. The grilling method promises a perfect char and succulent swordfish. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe for a delightful dining experience.
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