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Lemon Garlic Swordfish Recipe

Lemon Garlic Swordfish Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 84 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Lemon Garlic Swordfish recipe is a simple yet impressive main-course perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With succulent swordfish steaks marinated in zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs, then quickly grilled or pan-seared to perfection, this dish is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors and comes together in under 30 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 swordfish steaks (about 6 oz each, 1-inch thick)

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving

  • Lemon wedges
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade – In a bowl or shallow dish, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. This mixture will infuse the swordfish with bright, bold flavors.
  2. Marinate the Swordfish – Place the swordfish steaks in the marinade, turning to coat both sides well. Cover and let the fish marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes (up to 30 minutes for deeper flavor), turning once halfway through.
  3. Preheat the Grill or Pan – Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high on the stovetop. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.
  4. Cook the Swordfish – Remove swordfish from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill or sear the steaks for 3–4 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through, opaque, and have nice grill marks. Avoid overcooking, as swordfish can dry out quickly.
  5. Rest and Serve – Transfer the cooked swordfish to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley, and serve immediately for the best flavor.

Notes

  • For even more flavor, add a splash of white wine to the marinade.
  • Swordfish can be swapped for tuna steaks or mahi mahi if unavailable.
  • Do not marinate for more than 30 minutes, as the acid will begin to cure and toughen the fish.
  • This recipe is excellent with a light side salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 swordfish steak (about 6 oz)
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 470mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg