Name: Baked Halibut Potatoes: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 47 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 (6-ounce) halibut fillets, skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish; 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Baked Halibut Potatoes: Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that combines the delicate, flaky perfection of halibut with the comforting, earthy goodness of potatoes! Have you ever craved a meal that's both elegant and satisfying, healthy and hearty? This recipe delivers on all fronts, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that's sure to impress.

While the exact origins of pairing fish with potatoes are difficult to pinpoint, the combination has been a staple in coastal communities for centuries. Potatoes, easily grown and stored, provided a readily available carbohydrate source, while freshly caught fish offered essential protein and omega-3 fatty acids. This practical pairing evolved into countless regional variations, each reflecting local ingredients and culinary traditions.

What makes baked halibut potatoes so irresistible? It's the symphony of textures and flavors! The halibut, baked to tender perfection, melts in your mouth, while the potatoes, roasted until golden brown and crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, provide a delightful contrast. The mild, sweet flavor of the halibut is beautifully complemented by the earthy notes of the potatoes, creating a harmonious balance that's both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, and vegetables to create a truly personalized culinary masterpiece. Whether you're looking for a weeknight dinner that's quick and easy or a show-stopping dish for a special occasion, this recipe for baked halibut potatoes is guaranteed to be a winner!

Ingredients:

For the Halibut:

2 (6-ounce) halibut fillets, skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

For the Potatoes:

1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Preparing the Potatoes:

Preheat the Oven: First things first, let's get that oven preheating! Set it to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes and halibut cook evenly.
Prepare the Potatoes: Peel the Yukon Gold potatoes and cut them into roughly 1-inch cubes. Try to keep the pieces relatively uniform in size so they cook at the same rate. Nobody wants some potatoes that are mushy and others that are still hard!
Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried rosemary. Make sure every potato piece is nicely coated with the oil and spices. This is where the flavor party starts! If you're using Parmesan cheese, you can add it now as well.
Roast the Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Don't overcrowd the pan, or the potatoes will steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
Add Optional Vegetables (if using): After the potatoes have been roasting for 20 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Add your optional vegetables (bell peppers, red onion, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, etc.) to the baking sheet. Toss everything together to combine. This gives the vegetables a head start on cooking without getting too mushy.
Continue Roasting: Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and slightly browned, and the vegetables are tender-crisp. Keep an eye on them – every oven is different!

Preparing the Halibut:

Prepare the Halibut Fillets: While the potatoes are roasting, prepare the halibut fillets. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear in the oven.
Season the Halibut: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of the halibut fillets. Make sure to get every nook and cranny!

Baking the Halibut and Potatoes Together:

Add Halibut to the Baking Sheet: After the potatoes and vegetables have been roasting for a total of 35-40 minutes (potatoes for 20 minutes, then potatoes and vegetables for 15-20 minutes), remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully place the seasoned halibut fillets on the baking sheet, nestled among the potatoes and vegetables.
Bake the Halibut: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 12-15 minutes, or until the halibut is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature of the halibut should reach 145°F (63°C). Don't overcook it, or it will become dry!
Check for Doneness: To check if the halibut is done, gently insert a fork into the thickest part of the fillet. If it flakes easily and is opaque throughout, it's ready.

Serving:

Remove from Oven: Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven.
Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the halibut and potatoes. This brightens up the flavors and adds a nice zing.
Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
Serve Immediately: Serve the baked halibut and potatoes immediately. They're best enjoyed hot!

Tips and Variations:

Spice it Up!

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for the halibut or potatoes.

Herb Variations

Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Thyme, oregano, or dill would all be delicious additions to the potatoes.

Vegetable Substitutions

Don't be afraid to swap out the vegetables for your favorites. Asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts would all work well.

Lemon Herb Butter

For an extra touch of flavor, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or chives). Drizzle this over the halibut and potatoes during the last few minutes of baking.

Make it a Sheet Pan Meal

This recipe is perfect for a sheet pan meal, which means easy cleanup! Just line your baking sheet with parchment paper for even easier cleanup.

Halibut Alternatives

If you can't find halibut, you can substitute other firm white fish like cod, sea bass, or mahi-mahi. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Potato Variations

While Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for this recipe, you can also use red potatoes or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that sweet potatoes will cook a bit faster.

Adding Wine

For a richer flavor, you can deglaze the baking sheet with a splash of white wine after the potatoes have been roasting for about 20 minutes. This will add depth and complexity to the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the potatoes and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to roast them. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You can also season the halibut ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Serving Suggestions

This baked halibut and potatoes dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or a crusty loaf of bread for dipping in the pan juices.

Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional information for this recipe will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. However, it is generally a healthy and balanced meal that is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Why this recipe works

This recipe is a winner because it's simple, flavorful, and healthy. The combination of tender halibut, roasted potatoes, and flavorful vegetables is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's all cooked on one baking sheet, which means easy cleanup!

Troubleshooting

Potatoes not cooking evenly: Make sure the potatoes are cut into uniform sizes. If they're not, some will cook faster than others. Also, don't overcrowd the baking sheet. Halibut is dry: Don't overcook the halibut. It's best to err on the side of undercooked rather than overcooked. You can always cook it for a few more minutes if needed. Vegetables are mushy: Add the vegetables to the baking sheet after the potatoes have been roasting for a while. This will prevent them from becoming overcooked.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! Our Baked Halibut Potatoes recipe is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It's the perfect blend of flaky, succulent halibut, the comforting embrace of perfectly baked potatoes, and a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner or impress guests with a dish that's both elegant and surprisingly easy to prepare. Why is this a must-try? Because it's the epitome of simple sophistication. You get the health benefits of lean protein from the halibut, the satisfying heartiness of potatoes, and the opportunity to customize the flavors to your exact liking. It's a complete meal in one, minimizing cleanup and maximizing enjoyment. Plus, the presentation is stunning! Imagine serving these golden-brown, perfectly baked potatoes topped with glistening halibut – it's a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can add a delightful smoky depth, while a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle kick. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a squeeze of lemon juice. If you're feeling adventurous, consider topping the halibut with a creamy dill sauce or a vibrant chimichurri. Serving Suggestions and Variations: * Serve with a side of steamed asparagus or green beans for a complete and balanced meal. * A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. * For a heartier meal, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the baked potatoes. * If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. * Consider using different types of fish, such as cod or salmon, if halibut isn't readily available. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. * For a vegetarian option, substitute the halibut with grilled halloumi cheese or roasted tofu. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you'll love the combination of flavors and the ease of preparation. It's a dish that's sure to become a staple in your household. Now, it's your turn! I encourage you to head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and embark on this culinary adventure. Don't be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on the recipe. After all, cooking is all about experimentation and having fun! Once you've created your masterpiece, I'd love to hear about your experience. Share your photos and stories with me! Let me know what variations you tried, what your family thought, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or send me an email. I'm always eager to learn from my readers and see how they're making my recipes their own. So go ahead, give this Baked Halibut Potatoes recipe a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. Happy cooking! I can't wait to hear all about your culinary creations! Remember to enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite. Bon appétit!