Ina Garten Halibut with Herb Butter – A Simple and Elegant Seafood Dish

If you’re looking for a light yet flavorful seafood dish, Ina Garten’s halibut with herb butter is the perfect choice. It’s an elegant, no-fuss recipe where buttery, flaky halibut meets a vibrant herb-infused butter sauce. This dish is ideal for a special dinner or a healthy weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

It comes together quickly, uses minimal ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen.

What is Ina Garten’s Halibut with Herb Butter?

Ina Garten’s halibut with herb butter is a simple yet refined dish that pairs delicate halibut fillets with a compound butter made from fresh herbs, lemon, and garlic. The fish is roasted or pan-seared until perfectly flaky, then topped with melting herb butter that enhances every bite. It’s a great example of how fresh, quality ingredients shine when treated simply.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Chicken Enchiladas
• Ina Garten Scalloped Potatoes
• Ina Garten Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Ina Garten Halibut with Herb Butter

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Halibut with Herb Butter

• Quick and easy to prepare – Ready in under 30 minutes
• Fresh and flavorful – Bright herbs and lemon make it light and vibrant
• Healthy yet satisfying – High in protein and low in carbs
• Elegant enough for guests – A beautiful main course for entertaining
• Minimal ingredients needed – Most are pantry or fridge staples
• Pairs well with many sides – From rice to roasted vegetables
• Great for pescatarian diets – Nutritious and full of omega-3s

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Halibut with Herb Butter

• 4 (6-ounce) halibut fillets, skinless
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Halibut with Herb Butter

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the herb butter

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside or refrigerate if making ahead.

Step 3: Season the halibut

Place halibut fillets on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 4: Bake the fish

Transfer the sheet to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the halibut is just opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Add herb butter

Remove the fish from the oven and immediately top each fillet with a spoonful of herb butter. Let it melt over the hot fish.

Step 6: Serve and garnish

Plate the halibut and spoon any melted butter from the pan over the top. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite side dish.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Halibut with Herb Butter

• Steamed asparagus or green beans – Adds a crisp, fresh side
• Garlic mashed potatoes – Creamy and comforting pairing
• Wild rice or quinoa – Nutty grains balance the richness
• Simple arugula salad – Light and peppery for contrast
• Grilled zucchini or squash – Seasonal vegetables complement the fish
• Crusty baguette – Perfect for mopping up herb butter
• Chilled white wine – Pairs beautifully with lemony seafood

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten’s Halibut with Herb Butter

• Use fresh herbs – They bring brightness and better flavor than dried herbs
• Don’t overcook the halibut – It should flake easily and stay moist
• Pat the fish dry before seasoning – Helps it sear and cook evenly
• Make herb butter in advance – Store in fridge or freeze for quick use
• Adjust herbs to taste – Swap in chives, tarragon, or basil if preferred
• Let butter soften naturally – Avoid microwaving to maintain texture
• Rest fish briefly before serving – Allows juices to redistribute

Creative Variations of Ina Garten’s Halibut with Herb Butter

• Use compound butter with chives and tarragon – For a subtle oniony twist
• Add capers to the herb butter – Brings briny sharpness
• Pan-sear instead of bake – Gives a crisp golden crust
• Serve over sautéed spinach – Adds a nutrient-rich, elegant base
• Make it spicy – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter
• Try it with salmon or cod – The herb butter works on other fish, too
• Top with chopped toasted nuts – Like almonds or hazelnuts for crunch

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten’s Halibut with Herb Butter

• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours – Store in an airtight container
• Consume within 2 days – Fish is best eaten fresh
• Store herb butter separately – Keeps better and can be reused
• Avoid freezing cooked halibut – Texture may suffer when thawed
• Freeze unused herb butter – Roll into a log and wrap tightly
• Label and date containers – For easy identification and freshness tracking

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten’s Halibut with Herb Butter

• Reheat gently in a covered pan – Use low heat to preserve moisture
• Add a splash of water or broth – Prevents fish from drying out
• Microwave on low – Cover loosely and heat in short bursts
• Do not overheat – Halibut can become tough quickly
• Reapply herb butter after reheating – Adds fresh flavor back to the dish

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 270mg

Light, high in protein, and rich in omega-3s, this dish fits into many balanced eating plans.

FAQs

How long should I bake halibut at 400°F?

Halibut should be baked at 400°F for about 10 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillet. It’s done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque in the center.

What herbs go best with halibut?

Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, chives, and tarragon pair beautifully with halibut. These herbs complement the mild, buttery flavor of the fish without overpowering it.

Can I make herb butter in advance?

Yes, herb butter can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze it by rolling into a log and wrapping tightly in plastic wrap.

What’s the best side dish to serve with halibut and herb butter?

Steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, wild rice, or a fresh green salad are excellent side options. These pair well with the rich herb butter and keep the meal balanced.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s halibut with herb butter is proof that simple ingredients can create an elegant and satisfying meal. With its delicate flavor, buttery richness, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Serve it with a light salad or warm side and enjoy a seafood dinner that feels both effortless and refined.

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